BEST DJ Controller Under £300 - LET'S DEBATE! - 2021 Winter Edition

There is some serious competition between the entry-level DJ controllers, but which of them can take the edge?
James & Rodney battle it out to decide which is the top 5 and which one takes that #1 spot for them.
Featuring the Pioneer DJ DDJ-400, Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX, Hercules Inpulse 500, and more!
Get your DJ Controller: www.getinthemix.com/dj-equipm...
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[@realsk8rade]

platinum FX gang let's go

[@djtytun]

Good one guys, lots of energy. My Inpulse 500 is on the way and I'm glad I made the right choice. This video was very helpful, cheers.

[@grahamedarnell9615]

Informative and fun review! I learnt on vinyl years ago and added a Platinum FX last year create a hybrid set up alongside my decks. Great bit of kit. agree with this review of the Platinum Fx - lovely jog wheels and pitch faders plus top FX section. Quality and value for money.

[@GetintheMix]

Thanks for sharing, and glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Sebastian-rr7de]

These videos are super funny! Like the debate format lol

[@djpineapple3156]

So surprised the DDJ SB3 didn’t make the cut anywhere.

[@targasantoso4131]

Can't agree more, ddj sb3 its definitely good controller

[@Videovibesonline]

Great review, thank you

[@theno1deejay]

Great vid! Have an Impulse 500 on the way to me, looks like a made the right choice...

[@saharshmangal7467]

Reason why I choose a 6 month used ddj 400 over inpulse 500 - Only coz I'd have to pay a premium for serato pro for the 500. If hercules 500 starts coming with serato pro, oh boy!

[@stiv4715]

Coming back to this the guys are gold with the humor

[@hurlock61]

Very enjoyable review (also very helpful)

[@1djtas]

Wicked video boys, Do more like this,

[@djmajesticeclectic]

I just got the Hercules Inpulse 500 and really like it. I’m coming from the Pioneer REV1 which I got used from Amazon and had to return. Went with the Hercules brand new this time around. The one thing I miss is the paddle switch for FX from the REV1. I used that a lot as it was very easy to use. That aside the RGB pads feel really good to use and overall it feels responsive. This will be a controller I stick with for a while.

[@davidmartinez927]

very fun and entertaining, useful info!

[@Andrieano91]

Nice guys you guys made my day, nice conversations 🤣, for Me best! entry level controller???, numark platinum ! 😍

[@christianmontalvo6784]

Lástima que no entiendo mucho inglés pero de todas maneras me encantó ver a tantas controladoras juntas en un mismo video 🤩

[@AnthoRock27]

I have Hercules Inpulse 500 and I'm very proud in this moment! :-)

[@olivierdamiron7279]

Impulse 500 is nice, large, feels like a legit mixer with all the inputs but to get all the features to work, you have to lock yourself into the Hercules Djuced software, some of its key features are not available in Serato, I think the Numark should be at the top of the list. Great review, super informative, I have a Numark in the mail, can't wait to get started. I almost bought the Hercules but those huge pitch sliders on the Numark did it. Thanks for this cool, quick, solid review.

[@thireshannaicker4078]

I have the platinum fx. Jog wheels are abit heavy. But overall it is a classy good controller

[@popescocristian9838]

I use almost everyday hercules inpulse 500 and I'm very happy. I have too ddj 1000 and two xdj 700 I bought them with over 3000 euro... for nothing ...I use them one time in two months !

[@thenatmann1]

These guys are a riot! I was laughing the whole time!!

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

Where is there shop?

[@FBA_AllTHEWAY]

That Numark Platinum EFX #2🔥🔥

[@charlottedriweave937]

Hahaha! Great video guys! I have to defend the NI Traktor Kontrol Z1. This was my entry level controller for 4 years. I actually DJ’ed in clubs with this hooked up to my MacBook using Traktor Pro 3. It’s an awesome little piece of kit and done me right until I was able to switch up to the S2 MK3 earlier this year. You can stop start tracks, use filters and it can be hooked up to an iPad & F1. A good little space saver in your bag if you don’t want to lug around something like the S2.

[@GetintheMix]

Nice, thanks for sharing! Rodney will be pleased to know he's got some more back up for team Z1 🙌

[@liamstock4040]

Honestly without a doubt love the DDJ-400. Such a good controller 🚨🔥

[@DjMarroc6450]

Trust me if I say that the Kontrol Z1 + 2 Denon SC 2000 (those who are disappeared nowdays) are a nice but really nice Controller setup.. I had them for 3 years 2013 to 2015

[@johneccles9051]

🎧👌 brilliant once again

[@adelonicKitcreator]

I already knew the Numark platinum would be one of the best lol and that's what I did , bought one and I fk love every second of my life

[@catsarentviolent6039]

I got the inpulse 300 as my first controller. Great build, rubberised knobs, 3band eq, dedicated filter knob, jogwheel has a little bit of tension, which is great for beeatmatching when you're doing little adjustments, built in beatmatch guide if you need it, djuced software quite easy to learn and use, overall great quality and great choice for beginners 100% worth the money

[@goodvibes.151]

How do you use a mic with no input?

[@catsarentviolent6039]

You dont.

[@bananlukas7117]

yeah i thought about a hercules impulse 300 too, im kinda standing between the DDJ-400 and the impulse 300, i've never tried one before so im really not sure which one to pick, im 100% new to this. But the beatmatch sounds really usefull. Does it still do the job today? like are you still happy about the impulse 300 now, and think it can still live up to the standards in 2022

[@jhsmith1183]

If hercules would have put the jogwheels from the jogvision and full size pitch faders it would be perfect

[@SharpFitnessLook]

Great video

[@devonbeeman8804]

Controller that I just picked up a few weeks ago was the Inpulse 500, very nice explanations on why. Very happy with my purchase!! For a little while was thinking of returning it for the DDJ 400 but that war is finally over. I want serato pro but will stick with Djuiced for now since I can use more than what lite gives me at the moment. Don’t really think I’ll be going to the DDJ 1000 after, but idk that war will be fought in the future!

[@MegaBullshitChannel]

Why don’t you consider switching to ddj 400 anymore? Which one is the better device ?

[@devonbeeman8804]

@@MegaBullshitChannel I ended up trading all the way up to a DDJ 1000 SRT and have been absolutely loving it, do wish I would of got the DDJ 1000 so I could also use Rekordbox as well but you learn and live 😊

[@Jorn2bealive]

I just bought the Traktor Control S2 MK3 because compared to other controllers this comes with the full version of the software, while others come with a light version. Therefore this #3 might be considered as #2 or even #1 in terms of features/usability if you'd ask me.

[@GetintheMix]

That is a good point to consider, feels great to have the full version of the software. It could bump it up the list for some like yourself.

[@sodiumsovereign]

These two are great

[@LUNITUNZBackup]

I really wanted the Hercules 500, but the Roland 202 came with free Serato Pro and three free months of BPM Supreme, and I got it for $40 off.

[@duster43]

serato pro 140 bucks :(

[@DJDevine]

My first controller was the numark idj2. 😂 but I actually made a lot of money with it and still used vinyl but if my back was hurting I’d show up and plug it into the master board 80gig iPod still works I didn’t share it. I updated to a pioneer DDJ SX2 one of the first 1000 units... inc flip, upgraded fx, video, yada yada The sx3 would be perfect for me maybe do a best used controllers that flood when new stuff comes out? Cheers mates

[@Discvultures]

Ddj sx3 i think is a very solid controller and easy to use!

[@james_fernandes]

Ngl I have been wanting to buy some decks for the whole of this year. Practicing was difficult only using serrato pro on my Mac but I wasn't sure about my first set of cdj's I looked at the sb3 and was set on that but imma watch this first and see. Appreciate it!

[@GetintheMix]

It will be great for you once you get that physical controller! No problem, hope we helped your decision :)

[@james_fernandes]

@@GetintheMix Would you recommend the Sb3, I would get the ddj-400 but I got Serrano dj pro for free and am pretty comfortable with it now and prefer it to starting with recordbox, any opinions?

[@SharaG.]

I have the SB3 now for almost a year and LOVE IT!

[@Therealdonknots]

Thank you for your video , Will this mydmxgo work for swarm Fx 5 or is this just for uplights and moving heads

[@JBjb1]

Great content as ever, if you redid this again today what would your top 5 be? I’m really looking to take the plunge but the more I watch the more undecided I become.

[@anphonicsDJ]

Everything’s so expensive now. You make a decision?

[@wizdude]

The numark mixtrack platinum fx seems to be selling for a good price. That’s the one I have my eye on at the moment.

[@JBjb1]

@@anphonicsDJ yeah I eventually went with the TRAKTOR S3. It’s Not on this list but it ticked all the boxes I wanted and there’s scope to grow in it, I’m loving it so far.

[@anphonicsDJ]

@@wizdude I got the DDJ flx4. At first I got the Hercules impulse 300 but returned it and spent 100 more for the flx4. So nice

[@wakegary]

Came here to see a review and witnessed a majestic thing. I'm subscribed. Man from Texas who could watch y'all review anything. Great stuff, had me rolling.

[@kaislate]

Numark platinum FX. You can buy two and control 4 channels. The paddle effects should be on every controller.

[@Turbo_TechnoLogic]

Can you remap the FX buttons to other ones than the labeled? And persist these until changed?

[@Tommy3D]

NOOO YOU CAN’T JUST CHOOSE THE DDJ 400 RIGHT AFTER YOU DO THE FIRST CONTROLLER!

[@jackkilgannon6924]

Love how this is edited, dead fun and energetic

[@naraback161]

i loved this

[@kierenmoore3236]

NS4FX would replace both those controllers in 2nd spot now (and I prefer it to the Inpulse 500, as well - as I did the Platinum FX). S2 is fine if you want Traktor … 400 is the minimum if you want Rekordbox, imo - the 200 isn’t worth messing with. ^ between these 3, you could control/try all the main dj softwares (except Engine).

[@djtapia6379]

Excelent top 5

[@JermaineJagger]

WOW is he 6'5 or taller?! Fun informative video!! 👍🏾

[@Scientists_dont_lie]

I would have had the npulse number one, if! You could back spin.

[@javanmodeste5439]

Can u do a propper retail price and reveiw on the denon dj mcx 8000

[@KraftwerkGGaray]

Im a Inpulse500 user, and i really happy with this controller!!

[@Scientists_dont_lie]

Are you still happy with it? I'm kinda leaning to that or maybe the ddj400

[@MegaBullshitChannel]

@@Scientists_dont_lie im debating on the same

[@weaselsito]

Wow good comparison. Good that I bought an Inpulse 500 a couple of weeks ago, is the winner

[@armgod1]

bought one too. love it but am not using DJUCED just yet as I do videos only. Using it on virtual dj and it works perfect all functions

[@weaselsito]

@@armgod1 I am using Serato Pro with the 500 also works perfect

[@kudamah]

I would've placed the ddj 400 higher cause u get full access into the software it runs on. The Platinum FX is nice, but comes with Serato lite, which means one would still hv to seek out the pro version, unlike the Hercules or Ddj 400.

[@GetintheMix]

That is a good point worth considering when making a decision with these!

[@YahTheSubmariner]

I purchased the 400 for the exact reason and already have gigs i can go all in on

[@Barabassx]

The last release of DJUCED is truely amazing and more and more people just prefer Djuiced to Serato or Rekordbox (me included). And it's 100% free with the inpulse 500. Rekordbox or Serato Pro isn't the best option to everyone like few months/years ago.

[@kudamah]

@@Barabassx I never tried djuice but how would u rate against vdj?

[@DemianS1234]

@@kudamah Give it a try. You can download test version. I have also been using it for several years. The advantage is that since the last updates of djuced 5 there is no or hardly any difference with other software. Except for the price. I have hercules 500 or else I would have taken pioneer ddj 400. For part of Hercules 500 is a controller for beginner and also for the advanced. You can turn off the accompaniment. An advantage of djuced is that it is continuously developed at the request of the user. If you are a really professional DJ I would go for danon or pioneer. Because this is the club standard. Danon prime 4 is a genius device, but you also pay for that.

[@JohnSmith-iu8cj]

Should have mentioned that the ddj 200 only supports mono on the splitter which is a deal breaker

[@prismheart7542]

ok but as someone who used to have a Denon MC3000, which of these would work well with VDJ?

[@LiLKELiR]

Because I dont use rekordbox or Tablet ddj 400 200 out for me. The beatmix is just a upgraded version of the mixtrack quad. Impulse 500 is top tier sb3 is outdated only has 1 output. If you gonna spend money on a controller get 1 that is most comfortable for you. But if you want an all round controller Hercules 500 impulse only downside is small pitch range.

[@cli._.eya3]

Love music I love dj. But ever sense I don't have any dj controller. I cant afford to buy any dj controller. But I won't give up. If I have a dj controller. I practice and practice to improve my skills.. Hopefully someday I get my own dj controller..

[@Underdog_Basketball]

Where would you put the Pioneer Rev-1 if you could add that in now? Is it even in the top 5?

[@leeramsey3228]

I have an american audio vsma4 old now what would you recommend to replace it it's 4 channel so can have my turntables attached to it

[@Luca-nc2jx]

I know it’s a little over £300 but what’s your opinion of the denon mc4000?

[@nomad1517]

Hercules is the best for beginners. It's actually designed for beginners. It's made to actually teach you the basics of DJing. Hercules is a brand that is actually made for upcoming DJs. They have lessons, tutorials, etc. I would say for the money. Well worth it.

[@thehumorous1ruckesss]

I just ordered the pioneer ddj 200 for me and my 8yr old to start messing around with. Do y'all think that was a good decision???

[@elfandelbarsa9048]

Pioneer ddj 400 for me is the best beginner controller. Traktor control S2 is another great option.

[@TheAschwin83]

I like ddj 400 the most, because of the use of rekordbox, the beat fx section and filter knobs in eq section. In my opinion thats enough to crush all the other controller. I agree that the hercules impuls 500 is of better building quality, still not compatible with rekordbox.

[@Barabassx]

in serato on Inpulse 500 you can rebind knobs so you can have filters + fx on knobs..and i'd even say better FX on inpulse 500. And obviously you didn't test Djuced for a while. Test the last release and understand why it's now at the same level than Serato Pro and Rekordbox (at least for 95% of DJ's). No offense to Pioneer, its DDJ400 is getting old and Pioneer has the bad habit to count too much on its name to sell but hey, smaller brands are pushing very hard now and even Hercules (who made bad quality "toys" few years ago !) is better now with its Inpulse 500 and has amazing build quality way better than the entry Pionneer DDJ200&400.

[@dwai1967]

S2 mk3 ftw! Very well designed controller for iPad that works Traktor DJ 2 and algorridims djay.

[@GetintheMix]

Agreed! The easy use with the iPad is a game changer for some, makes it very versatile.

[@pk3776]

Traktor still the best when you dive deep into midi. S2 MK3 is a 4 deck controller with creative programming 👍

[@Liatroim]

Hercules is worth it. Love the 500.

[@grandpadejay9909]

I love the reloop mixon4

[@brunow.3395]

For beginner wich one would i get?

[@TheHolyghost55]

Just got my Inpulse 500 a month ago for 300$ and I really don't regret the choice I made. I think it's just the best in the segment, especially that I'm into psytrance and I don't use the FX much, just PERFECTOOO Build - 1000/10 Software - 5/5(No issues so far, I also run Traktor pro 3 on it, never even tried serato so far) Knobs - 5/5 FX - 3/5(could implement it better, but doesn't really bother me) Just a solid all rounder, if build is not a problem the DDj 400 would be the second best. And if you mostly play mainstream music, Platinum FX + serato one you can consider.

[@Horrordelic]

Ok good to know also thinking about getting this controller!! Does it all map up automaticly in Traktor btw ? Also will be use for psy ;) (check our label if you want some music btw ;))!!

[@Myo24]

I just ordered a Inpulse 500 :)

[@singingbird8540]

Number one was perfect

[@FarebrothaChronicle]

Why wasn't the Pioneer DDJ Flx6 not among the controllers. It tops most if not all that were talked about. Hercules Jog Vision would also be in my top 5 as well as Numark platinum fx, Hercules impulse 500, Pioneer SB3. Close consideration given to Roland DJ-202.

[@Avatar-the-name]

You're forgetting the most important part... Under £300

[@melvinwhitten1760]

Why do all the new dj controllers have the pads at the bottom oth contreellers and jog wheels so for up away from the cross fader? None of stand alone new mixers have the pads on the bottom they are in the middle.

[@wesleycorrearocha]

Numark DJ 2 GO is there but Hercules DJ Jogvision not?

[@syxca]

Reloop Beatmix 4 user here! Kinda unexpected u mention it lmao

[@DanoSuits]

Where would the Reloop Ready or Buddy be in this lineup?

[@DJSOMIXX]

I want hercules impluse 500, do you deliver in india, Kolkata please

[@KaosEngineering]

Waiting for the Inpulse 1000 ... with bigger jog-wheels with screens on'em, full pitch nudge and better connectivity

[@ivanriobla]

better connectivity ?

[@duster43]

@@ivanriobla lol

[@DemianS1234]

That would be genius. More standalone control. With fx dry/wet parameter. Key lock button. Large jog wheels and sensitivity adjustable. And display. Then Hercules walks together at the same height as Pioneer, Numark and Denon.

[@DemianS1234]

@@ivanriobla What do you mean by better connection?

[@DemianS1234]

I've had the Hercules 500 for several years, works great with Serato pro, although I'm not a fan of Serato. Rekordbox is the best for me. Although djuced has become really good, especially after update version 5, better than Serato is my opinion. Only thing wrong on the Hercules 500 is dry/wet button for the fx. Furthermore, it is perfect for beginners and experienced DJs. Super good service from hercules and djuced they also work very well with other streaming platforms. Especially beatport. Both hercules and djuced work the service close together. don't stop there duced. It's also free. And they process customizations in the updates requested by users. There is also test panel. In short, for the DJ who wants to play fun parties at home or drive in a top controller. If you want to play in larger clubs, you will really have to go for pioneer or the danon that also plays at the same level. Always nice to add the Hercules 500. I hope Hercules comes with an even newer controller. More the stand alone control. With display., dry/wet nob for fx, larger tempo fader, and keylock nob.

[@garnhamr]

which ones can use spotify?

[@duster43]

Ok im old school. I used to love spinning my records back, Id put a 45(small size record for youngins) under my 12 inch record to get the record to spin back really smooth and easy. So when I got the inpulse 500 ( my first controller) first thing I did was spin the jog wheel and it just doesn't spin. Me not knowing how jog wheels are suppose to feel, I sent the inpulse 500 back to the seller thinking something was wrong with it . I told my cousin who has the sb3 and he just laughed and said that's how the jog wheels are suppose to feel. So that being said I guess I shouldn't expect to be back spinning jog wheels like my old record player so I told them to send it back to me ..lol

[@djedyz]

Add a X1 to that Z1 Traktor controller and still have an under £300 controller set

[@josephvincentbondoc2530]

Wow nice numark controller

[@Astro-X-Ent]

I'm here with my mixtrack platinum and want something more exciting now 😆

[@deiwar2994]

What of Roland DJ202

[@nicholasmanig7190]

Akia AMX should be here. Numark Mix track pro 2,3

[@atomsounds12]

Thanks guys am from uganda 🇺🇬 Africa and am one of your best funs. Get me that SB3 please am really in need of it.Thanks GUYS #one love.

[@sarimbeetle]

What about the roland dj202?

[@rackjice2952]

That Dj2Go is cute haha

[@tmus1905]

glad my djj200 and 400 made it into your top 5

[@aclizarda]

Platinum fx

[@wizdude]

18:11 he loves to be on the gear lol 😂

[@gabrysalerno6059]

Because reloop don't have led mater? 🤔😕

[@Panslapper]

Numark FX No1, ..SB3 no2 rest I wouldn't waste table space with.

[@scottfrost317]

You can hit shift cue on the z1 natively to play the track. I’ve rocked may clubs with it. add the x1 mk2 and an f1 with the tekken mapping and you’re future proof. This has been my setup for the last 5 years

[@pbungee]

Agreed also throw this in to a little bag with a small tablet/laptop and you can run out the club to the after party.

[@techschoolcool]

Looking forward to purchase a controller. Just wanted to know your suggestion between inpulse 500 vs ddj 400.

[@scottishSloth]

I strongly recommend the impulse 500

[@djnelsoncardoso593]

Eu so dj resido em Angola preciso de uma controladora por favor o que eu faço?

[@BeliveTheKiwi]

why Roland 202 was out of that list ? like thats a great piece of a deck

[@djyaka1426]

Pioneer ddj sb3 should be among top 3

[@bcoulbourn]

Freaking agree tryna find reasons to upgrade, but I have no complaints

[@osh241]

So happy I bought the Impulse 500 earlier this year ✌️✌️ Good review as usual

[@GetintheMix]

Appreciate it!

[@armgod1]

that controller is a tank! I love mine

[@osh241]

I'd love to see a review on DJuced v Serato Pro using the Inpulse 500. Way more options while using it on DJuced.

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

Best DJ controller is Hurules 500 gold. Are you in a shop? Where is this shop? I want to buy some Monitor speakers.

[@mauricemcgary10]

can anyone tell me whats the economically best controller for the virtual DJ software. I like the serota fx & I was trying to see how close I can get to effects like that

[@MrPirsquare]

The Hercules Impulse 500 works with Virtual DJ (www.virtualdj.com/manuals/hardware/hercules/inpulse500/setup.html). However, a Pro Infinity, a Pro Subscription or a PLUS License is required to use the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500. Without any of the above Licenses, the controller will operate for 10 minutes each time you restart VirtualDJ.

[@MrPirsquare]

Depending on what you need, you can also look at the Hercules Inpulse 200 as well but I don't think buying the Inpulse 300 is worth it as an upgrade from the 200.

[@lilart13ab]

U 4got 2 add the pioneer wego 4 controller