Hercules Inpulse T7 Controller of the Year 23'

[@kungfudorkstudios]

Great review! I have the T7 with the innofader upgrade and I love it. I still prefer to take out my turntables, but for times when easy portability is needed...it's perfect. Feels fun like playing a portable. I will say this, just incase anyone else has the issue. I was having horrible drift with Serato DJ Pro on a 2019 macbook pro, and was so frustrated. The cue would drift from 12 to 1 in about 60 seconds of beat juggling. Hercules looked into it, and when I used their software, DJuiced, there was absolutely no drift. So they suggested I chat with Serato, after going back and forth and looking at my system reports, nothing was standing out. So Serato asked me to turn on "anti drift" or off ,depending on what it was set to. It was on, because I assumed it would help.....as soon as I turned it off the drift issue went away. It was very counter intuitive, but a super simple solution. Hopefully that might help others!

[@dooshmasta]

The anti drift is for when there's enough wow flutter that the BPM drifts, and when you turn it on it helps you stay in time during mixing, but the absolute position of the records drift. So you can't beat juggle effectively and beat mix effectively (by the numbers) on Serato, you have to pick one. Basically the platters are not accurate enough to stay in time. That's one of the corners they cut to make this controller cheap. Honestly, in my opinion, it's brilliant. They knew the software would pick up the slack of the corners they cut.

[@always_trust_all_scientists]

Yo thanx for this!! I actually bought this litterally a year ago almost to the day (end Oct 2023) but I didn't touch this thing till a year later (yesterday end of October 2024) I finally got this thing up and running on swrato after some trouble shooting. Then only to find that it DRIFTED SO SO SO BADLY. I was depressed as I saw this controller as a waste of 1000bux (canadian). But yeah! I read your post, turned "antidrift" off, and it works perfectly.. very pleased. Tha k you very much for the post.

[@UONeal]

I waited until I watched the whole review. I've been subbed since you were about 4k... It's great to see you finally getting the recognition you deserve. I love your in depth comprehensive reviews. Can't wait to see what 2024 brings

[@ClevelandTerry]

I appreciate that

[@sheritaevans9585]

I’m getting one of this for my boyfriend for Christmas this year I needed this

[@BalanceInAllThings1111]

I’ve had my T7 for about 2-3 months now and as a new DJ, I love it! I’ve just been waiting to hear your opinion of it since you’re a seasoned pro. I started with the DDJ200 just to see if I’d enjoy the hobby/craft before spending lots of money on it. Having used an inexpensive beginner controller I can say the T7 has given me a “legit” feeling that the $180 controller could not. Can’t wait until DJay Pro supports it bc that’s the software I started with and it grew on me. Serato was an investment but it’s solid and industry standard so I’m glad I made the move. But what’s crazy is djay pro costs $30/yr and I can use key change but I have to spend $250 or $10/mo just to get key change and scratch bank on Serato. I chose the T7 bc of the platters. When you think of a DJ you think of vinyl spinning so I wanted that. I’ve learned to scratch using this controller. I love that the size is 2x that of most newbie controllers too. Would’ve never been comfortable taking the DDJ200 to any type of gig. It’s useful now as a vacation “toy” so I can practice away from home. Found some hit 45s at a local thrift for $1!!! Made some adapters with cardboard, painted them gold, and now my T7 has a customized look.

[@joeydixon4435]

Can you post a pic of how yours look with your 45 records,I been looking to buy two 45 records that are red,for my t7.

[@ignoranceisnotatrend4669]

I'm 52 years old and started on technique 1200s, would you recommend the t7 over the poineer rev 1 just for small local gigs?

[@djcoolcliff]

I would always use a mixer if I’m doing a gig! The mixer will allow you to have control over the sound you throwing from the device and mic! Great video and I was sold on the price already!!! Thanks my brother!!!!

[@the904loungepresents]

Yes, I have had mine for about 3 months now, I have been djing for 20+ years but never with turntables or moving platters, but I'm not a scratch dj so it really didn't matter. I have only taken it out to 1 gig and it was a house party and man I had so much fun, the features on it is nothing like my Denon but I wouldn't be scared to use it at a bigger event alongside a mixer. I do believe if/when I decide to upgrade from my Denon, this controller has inspired me to go the Rane One or Rev7 route. Hats off to Cleveland for this great review and to Hercules for keeping our new generation of djs in mind!

[@DJBennyswift]

Really nice controller, always love your in-depth reviews. I was looking at this T7 when it came out and was very impressed. I wanted something for the house with moving platters but I was just gifted a set of sl-dz1200’s which I updated. But this T7 may find a home with me soon. Thanks for sharing CT!

[@IvanSoletTwitch]

The best review. Thank you from Spain.

[@blendmastersdjservicesllc9338]

Awesome review! I have my Rane 1 and customized my case so it is heavy! I went and got the Hercules Impulse 500 to take to smaller gigs for portability but after seeing this I’m upset I didn’t see this T7! I like the 500 for portability but the T7 with XLR outs and spinning platters is definitely a great buy at the price point! You make me wanna trade up! 😂

[@DJDRFUNKJUICE]

Yo you nailed it on this review. Can't wait to check you out when you go to Namm this year. Get better soon peace!

[@djmeltron]

Very good review! Love how comprehensive it was. Thank you for your honesty. I think if I end up wanting to try my hand with DJing on platters I will definitely look at starting off with this controller. My go-to controller right now is the Roland DJ707m.

[@jacktumbouniversal2149]

hey Terry :) , i know we allready did discuss this on your livestream , but i still stand by the fact that they should be the first to make this same controller with 4 channels and 4 decks ... I personally think that it would revolutionize dj-ing in general at this pricepoint! i hope this community will leave replies to this comment > lets see what y`all think ! my respect ! great review!

[@DJ_PROMO_PR]

I got the Rane One and it's dope, but if this was available at the time I would've definitely bought the T7 and save some money for other gear.

[@majorchutzpah7265]

Nah, Rane is quality!

[@gregorydavenport7622]

Yeah I bought a Rane One right before it cameout.Was using a Hercules 500 B4 that and upgraded to a Rane One.I was saying the same thing at one time but I love my Rane One

[@DjKennyisglobal]

Terry I agree with everything your say (EVERYTHING!) I even made a replacement vid on how to remove or replace the belt ANDDD won a TikTok battle with it!

[@Twyst1268]

CLEAVLAND TERRY!!! THANK YOU!!!! I've been looking at this one for quite some time and I've been looking for something equally equipped to my Rane setup to use in the venues I play at because when you're in a hood setting. Well, let me just say. If you take your $5K setup in and use it and then go to a corporate function wondering where a smell is coming from. LOL!!!! So, I stopped bringing my Rane setup into the regular venues I do and moved down to the Hercules DJ Control Starlight for it simplicity and ease of use. Plus for $200. It doesn't matter how it smelled. Now, I can upgrade without breaking my pockets to something I'm accustomed to. Appreciate your reviews. Keep doing your thing fam. Even though this my first post. I've been subscribed to you for years...

[@JamesMesidor]

A traktor user and serato as my back up I must say Hercules is on the way son good review sir!!

[@jasondaly5351]

That’s a great review. Fair play to you for saying or giving the thumbs up for the controller. So many people worried they can’t do or scratch if it ain’t pioneer or Rane when it’s absolutely not the case . Well done Hercules the bigger names should act accordingly

[@killaskrilla5320]

Just copped it as my first DJ controller, its definitely the best controller to learn on if youre trying to learn how to scratch and youre pn a budget, found one for 300$ and its definitely worth it. Got everything you need. And you can even upgrade the crossafaders in the future. Definitely keeping this until its time to start DJing forreal and then i'll cop real turntables.

[@mm-2018]

My first turntables were belt drive RadioShack realistic..Didn't know anything about direct drive even after I got a technic..lol

[@victorboyd9881]

Can you do a demo set using the buttons that’s what I’m trying to get at

[@DMulabiTalejan]

Excellent... and good to bring up and celebrate little gear heros like this in their own right without wanting them to a Rane One of Rev7!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@makstaz79]

At that price point I have zero complaints! Great unit for the price.

[@alphaza76]

Very good overview - thanks. I've always had a keen interest in this controller. Are you able to backspin those 45's easily enough to do some accurate juggling? Also, have you seen any sticker drift when cutting/juggling?

[@1period]

Thanks!

[@ClevelandTerry]

Thank you

[@lorenzahawkins4110]

As always Cleveland I truly appreciate your product reviews. Keeping on mixing!

[@djkeviekevbx]

Great review on a great product. I have been contemplating if i should get one and your review just sealed the deal. I have a Numark NVii and it was my work horse when i stopped using my 1200s. This is going to be my primary controller and the NVii is the backup. !200s is for the large events. Thank you for the great review and i hope to see you in August at the DJ EXPO again.

[@Mighty-J-Audio]

Thank you bro. I’ve been waiting for the review a long time.

[@cmgtafan]

I use vdj and there is a mic eq in the software that works great to add more functionality to using the mic.

[@ClevelandTerry]

That’s great. Every little bit helps.

[@cmgtafan]

Also thank you for this review. I bought this premium version that comes with the better faders and a soft case for $100 more than the original t7... totally love it for my bedroom and house parties.

[@Skelly.B]

Great review Cleveland. I'm getting the T7 real soon for some future gigs I got lined up this year, one of which will be in a bar which you said this will be perfect for. Peace & Love brother ✌🏾❤

[@mdzic7628]

Been waiting for this review! Thanks, CT.

[@dj_sphurrahds]

This sound really good.. good review CT! I think the pros of this controller also to the platter..since, if rane one, u have to make a hole (in the centre) if u want to change the vynils. Another pros, this controller easy to change the vynils in and out..if rane one, u have to screwed it to the vynils itself. Well..another kudos to Hercules. Thx CT. It blew my mind. Cheers.

[@ignoranceisnotatrend4669]

Mr Terry, even though the t7 has moving platters and wanting to have more capabilities when djing small gigs would you take the t7 over the rev5? Im a dj from the 80s that started on turntables with moving platters and im proud to say that I been there and done that and im now curious about the platters on the rev5 since im coming from oldschool to the new,i can still do the latest scratches but at my age I'm more concerned about having clean ,smooth and dope mixes for the gigs, and the auto beat transition mode is what's attractive to me💯💯💯please give me your advice on this matter 👍🏽

[@DenonDJUSA]

Great review and nothing to fear about belt driven platters. The worlds very first active platters by Denon Dj (DN-S5000) were belt driven without issue.

[@markbruggeman274]

Seems just like what i was looking for. (for years) I wanted something just to scratch! Would be cool if they had timing correction with the cutting and fx etc. Too bad it's not direct drive though and needs fader replacing.

[@sakonation]

Thanks for the review

[@KeonFraser-yx5st]

Listening to this video, you make me wanna go and buy this controller

[@Dj_1ktray]

Love the controller have to send it back today but will be buying another

[@DJWiseVlad]

Great, honest review, T! Might be a good replacement to my dated Pioneer SR2 for my bar gigs (although I do trust my SR2 for weddings hehe). This is what I envision a Rane One MKII to be like, with higher quality pads, faders and more outputs. Paddle effects, onboard stems control, full size pitch sliders, 2 channels? Take my money! To ME, that would be the perfect controller.

[@joe55514]

I think the controller functionality is powered by usb and the moving platers are take power from the wallplug

[@bboymac84]

Hope they get it compatibility with DJay pro 5 app

[@ClevelandTerry]

Absolutely!

[@ElevateandBlend]

Got rid of my plx tables because don't use them much didn't like the torque and wasn't a fan of phase. Like something portable like vinyl feel like the rev layout however have my eye on this. Stanton stx for practice or this? How you like it? Rane one I sold it - was ok didn't love the mixer layout. Thoughts CT?

[@DJGALAXYPRODUCTION]

I use external mixer which I plug my microphone in so that part wouldn't even be an issue.

[@djchinot7229]

Nice vacation controller that’s for sure! Cool machine! Definitely worth it

[@mike._.feliciano6782]

Great review Cleveland and it would seem you really get more for the money. Sure, the upgraded faders would be great but for the cost of the upgraded faders compared to the inno-faders, the cost is marginal and well worth the $80 upgrade, imo. Now, the belts, they will, over time will need to be replaced but so what, for the price, it's still a great deal. Kudos to Hercules for bringing to the market an affordable alternative to help bring in the next generation of incredible DJs. Thank you, for doing this review, I've been waiting on this, not necessarily to go out an purchase it, but I may, but to hear your honest assessment of this equipment. I hope your 2024 is even better than your 2023, keep up the great work CT.

[@paulhelsby]

I got my T7 4 of 5 months ago now and its brilliant. My only gripe is having to use serato. I used to use x2 technics DZ1200's and a Traktor Z2 mixer in a coffin case, and well, I got sick of carrying all the weight around. The T7 is amazing for scratching. I love the stems in serato its a big game changer, but that's all I love about serato.... I hate the pitch - when you speed a track up and lock the key the audio quality suffers massively compared to Traktor doing the same task. The filter in serato sounds like a jet engine taking off and increases in volume about 3db, compared to traktors perfectly clean filter. the 'tail' on the delay fx is so poor compared to Traktor (and pioneers) and that with extensive experimenting of the feedback and cut off. If Native instruments finally got its act together and upgraded traktor with the introduction of stems then it could be mapped to the T7, then I would be in DJ heaven. Apols for the rant, and love your videos as always, Terry, well done. I would advise anyone to buy the T7 whether you've been DJ 19 Years like me, or you've just started. Its definitely not an entry level product :)

[@BGPhotos]

Try Virtual DJ. It works great with it.

[@Madness915eptx]

I have this unit… it’s awesome. The next one is gonna be the bomb!!! I can’t wait …4 channel maybe… 2 mic … booth out….🙏I can only hope.

[@skellebone4635]

Getting mine this Saturday!

[@jhirn2957]

Brother. Can you speak on the premium vs innofaders? I wanna upgrade and haven’t heard a single review on the premium faders other than installation shorts.

[@scowlistic]

Just found your channel, instant sub.

[@ClevelandTerry]

Thanks for subbing

[@Tenasedeinc]

Clevey cleve!! Great Review. 👍 worth the wait.

[@DJDESIEL]

Great review 🫵🏾🫡🎯💯

[@victorboyd9881]

Can you go over the buttons to assist in back buttons and more

[@greghempe647]

In your opinion is this a good setup for someone wanting to get back into djing (mixing and scratching) somewhat a bedroom Dj . I used to have just vinyl decks back in the mid 90s and realise that digital has a lot more option with effects than just pure analogue mixing.

[@ClevelandTerry]

Absolutely

[@joekukreja4641]

As you have tested both the T7 and the Rev5 .. if you can only choose one, which one would you choose? Thank u

[@moeberry3256]

Fine review CT, I just received my T7 before Christmas and it’s a very cool 😎 controller. I do fine, for me, the thiccc slip mat makes it a little challenging to control vinyl. Oh, the slim slip mat was not in my box

[@armgod1]

slim slip mat not included in regular edition. there's a premium edition

[@meyerdigitalfilm]

Booth out is mostly no issue becaue you go into a clubmixer which is in the most locations anyway and mostly it has booth outs

[@ClevelandTerry]

That’s a very big assumption. I’m not bringing this to a club. If there’s a club mixer I’m using that. Either way, it should have booth outs.

[@pedrorodrigues-ej6fl]

with a stand alone model would be great!!!! I'm waiting for it!

[@djraheastwood9051]

Great review. How is it weight and size compared to the Rev 7? I am looking for a lighter alternative kinda an upgrade to my SR2.

[@ClevelandTerry]

It’s super light. Probably half of a rev 7

[@djraheastwood9051]

I appreciate you bro. I started watching your videos during Covid and now I don't make a move on equipment until I see your review. @@ClevelandTerry

[@joeydixon4435]

Hey cleveland is hercules upgrade worth the money or should i spend the extra money and get the innovader.

[@joeydixon4435]

The cross-over what I was asking cleveland.

[@ClevelandTerry]

I figured. I haven’t tried the innofader but I have one in my rane 70. They make excellent faders but this one is no slouch.

[@joeydixon4435]

@@ClevelandTerry thanks cleveland,I look forward to other videos on the t7,I am getting into djing and I just purchased this one I have the ddjsb3 and the rev1.feel better.

[@neostratospey6946]

Hey man. What is wrong with Djuced? Why every time Serato?

[@ClevelandTerry]

I didn’t say anything was wrong with djuced but most people buying this already use serato.

[@neostratospey6946]

I just wonder. Why buy Serato when Djuced do all things disco? Maybe not Stereo Masters=Stems. I like your style making videos. Good work man. Keep up the show. Greetings from Sweden.

[@ramblingram3662]

I’m just a hobbyist and fairly a beginner currently using a Pioneer flx4. With no aspirations to do nightclub gigs, do you think this is worth it or should I look for something higher tier?

[@ClevelandTerry]

As a hobbyist this will do fine.

[@FSP.Entertainment]

Thanks for the honest review.

[@joeytoribio2035]

Have they released any firmware updates to solve the issues you described?

[@atypical_blk_guy]

I got a numark mix stream pro plus for Christmas and swapped it for the t7. I still think the Rane one is the better purchase but the t7 is perfect for anyone that wants to get into scratching and can't afford a full battle setup or Rev 7.

[@jersey21212121]

I would love a booth output to run my obs audio.

[@ClevelandTerry]

I get that.

[@Barnsey87]

Rane one is still king, but I love bargain setups with great features.

[@NewVisionLCS]

Excellent review!! This definitely has a place at that price point!!

[@rafaelrosas8744]

Herc T7 or Newmark NS4FX for the price piont? I realize one has moving platters

[@MrKryokillkilled]

Will the Mic work well enough for Karaoke. Just to plug and play at a bar

[@ClevelandTerry]

Well you have no EQ so it would be tough to adjust for each singer. If you use VDJ I believe you have software EQ’s

[@DjScrappyHype]

really love the style and design of this end of the day as a understanding human being everything can't same one of the best looking controllers I've ever seen. one question tho , does it support four decks/ channels?

[@ClevelandTerry]

2 channel only

[@selectajohnjohnfrommellowt8539]

Cleve Terry can do a video on the pioneer ddj xp2

[@leifbergado6125]

Rane 1 or t7 which should you prefer?

[@DjKennyisglobal]

This a very dope controller once you change out the slip mats & fader to a inno fader its a winner

[@djbigton5761]

so because its only 700 the buttons that only work properly sometimes get a pass loop roll? last time i checked 700 was still alot of money for some people.they made the price the product should work.

[@johnmoreno5965]

I want this for my room ❤️

[@bboymac84]

Was it an “Inpulse buy” 😅😊😂

[@djphiliptan]

I'm wondering what's actually in the grooves of those stock Hercules 7" records. Silence? Serato tone? Aaah fresh? The theme song from "Hercules"?

[@ClevelandTerry]

Giligan’s Island.

[@mattclay513]

Silence

[@mattclay513]

There was 1st thing I checked when I got that 😂😂

[@djphiliptan]

@@mattclay513 Thanks for letting us know!

[@patrickcannon4578]

I usually agree with you bruh but I sent mine back. Backspins are terrible. It was ok and I used it for about 2-3 weeks. Then I got back on my One and it was night and day. But I understand if newer djs like it or seasoned djs maybe want to use as a backup.

[@ClevelandTerry]

That’s why I didn’t compare it to a controller twice as much.

[@armgod1]

@@ClevelandTerry hahahaha! catch 22

[@Sirch100precent]

Any DJ who complains about a beat match guide on the actual controller isn't a true DJ. Especially if they DJ on software and constantly look at the bpm while beatmatching. I'm probably gonna get the newest edition soon. Thanks for the review.

[@Dynemics]

I’m torn between this and the REV5. If you factor in the cost of the T7 + Serato Pro and the expansion pack, the cost is pretty much par. I absolutely love the idea of motorized platters though.

[@Jupiterson]

Just picked this controller up. I have the standard faders rather than the “gold premiums”. Is there a big difference?

[@ClevelandTerry]

Yes. It’s in the video.

[@bv7461]

I’ve seen a handful of complaints online about the volume clipping or jumping like crazy when serato effects are engaged. Another top complaint was the inability to do a backspin. Have you had any of these experiences at all with this controller?

[@ClevelandTerry]

Have not had any volume issues with FX. I have had issues with stems getting loud on occasion but that’s a serato issue. It is harder to backspin belt driven drives.

[@hernanvergara9313]

12in Skinz offer a vinyl with different textures for grip. They also supply a backspin washer that you put underneath. Cheers

[@deejayqueazy8251]

As someone who has been using the T7 since after NAMM, The backspin is not the belts...it's the lack of weight of the records and the thick slip mats. Get some control discs from 12 inch skins. You wont need the backspin washer.

[@teamtraderusa]

@clevelandterry Great video. I got one based on your comments. The price point is great for the features. Could you also do a video comparing Serato DJ Lite vs DJuiced. I want to try DJiced because it opens up all features and it's free while the free Serato DJ Lite has limited features like 4 cue points vs 8 cue points with DJuiced. I'd like to see a head to head match up. Anyways, keep up the great work. Thanks Ron, aka DJ Relik

[@devinstubbs1166]

So I have this controller and I love it but I’m having trouble hooking it up to my mixer.. I’m getting sound but it’s distorted. I’m trying to use the rca outs and not getting good sound and also the XLR master outs..kinda frustrating because I can hear the sound it’s just not clear and distorted..any suggestions

[@klausmogensen8691]

If you are on windows: Are you using the native ASIO drivers?

[@deejayblaz3526]

If iI was going low budget, i'd pick the NS7 III or the Rev7.

[@justingarret4776]

The only thing that dissuaded me was they got rid of the aux input and the mic eq's. I wish they would have kept that from the Inpulse 500. I could do without the mic eq but not the aux input.

[@djguycuban]

If the controller does that, then the AC input is not working and is pulling the energy from the USB. That is weird, they should have tested that before. Did you test without the power input?

[@lawrencebyrdsong7570]

Amazing controller Definitely get the premium if you get it

[@Morontheblind]

Has/ Does anyone own a Hercules T7? I have owned two T7- both the premium. They both don’t turn on anymore. The first one stopped powering on after two days. The second basically never even had a chance. If this has happened to you, did you get it fixed somehow? I can’t buy a third controller until I get my refund for the first one.

[@ba5ejuan251]

Do you think if you plug in a USB split, you can then switch between laptops and it won't shut off?

[@ClevelandTerry]

Haven't tried that but I doubt it.

[@calmambience1404]

How good is the T7 for playing on larger sound systems or festivals?

[@ClevelandTerry]

If you go into a mixer it will be fine.

[@QRS365]

Terry without a Cap? Priceless...... anyways about this controller i think with the Con you identified makes me not want to get one knowing that murphy law do exist..

[@stevenjones6875]

What software can u use

[@darringranderson7898]

Does the mic get recorded when your making a mix using mic

[@klausmogensen8691]

In Serato you can have it recorded as part of the mix In Virtual DJ you can enable or disable having the mic recorded in the settings

[@jcarter1742]

My Newmark Scratch doesn't come on tell it plugged in to the laptop

[@ClevelandTerry]

That’s because the power is coming from your computer. This is not the same.

[@jcarter1742]

@@ClevelandTerry The Newmark Scratch has its own power you can use it as a old school analog mixer with vinyl. My bad the pads & effects button's don't light up unless it connected to a laptop with Serato.

[@SC36DC]

I would LOVE to see a version of the T7 released made exclusively for DJAY PRO. As I prefer to use DJAY PRO over Serato, just more fun to use, better effects, way more features. Who knows how long, if ever, DJAY PRO supports the T7. This is the only reason why I haven't purchased it yet. Perfect bedroom DJ console for someone that DJ'd only with 1200's.

[@ClevelandTerry]

It doesn’t need to be made exclusive to djay. They just need a proper port.

[@SC36DC]

@@ClevelandTerry Yes, very true. A proper port is all we need.

[@irritablysavvy]

Price is inflated on all of these controllers. The Mixars Primo had full inputs/outputs for $499. Too bad it's not around anymore.

[@ClevelandTerry]

🤷🏾‍♂️. I don’t set the prices

[@DJGKini]

Great job my boy

[@ClevelandTerry]

👍🏾

[@officialrapprod]

Suup T, great review!!👌🏾🙏🏾👍🏾️💯

[@davidcummings5984]

The Hercules controller for what it is punching above its weight .What you get in relation to its price in comparison to more higher range controllers is a steal .Not impressed with the phader but you can enhance it . Im jnterested .