Top 5 DJ Controllers for Beginners - July 2015

The world of DJ controllers is ever-changing. Before you know it, the latest and greatest is old school. As the digital age progresses, the world of DJ equipment is playing hardball to try and keep up. Taking advantage of what software can do, is what makes the hardware successful. For those in the entry-level world of DJ controllers, here are your top 5 beginner DJ controllers for July 2015.

Numark Mixtrack & Mixtrack Pro 3

It's been a tough call on whether or not we want to separate these, but ultimately, they were built with the same concept in mind. The Mixtrack series has long been a best-seller in the DJ world. With advanced features, quality build and a long, successful track record, it's never surprising that there's a new, better edition. The strip search on these units won us over.






Pioneer DDJ-SB

It's honestly impossible to rank Numark over Pioneer DJ or vice versa. But for Pioneer to rock the DDJ-SB as their beginner DJ controller really creates a stepping stone to the ultimate DDJ-SX2. While there's a lot missing, the look and feel of the SB is much like that of its older brother, for a much lower price. The jog wheels of Pioneer have always been a favorite of mine, and while you miss out on the digital display in the center, you certainly get a feel for what your future could hold.




Gemini Slate

Gemini has long been known for excellent price points, and the Slate 2-channel controller is no different. The prime placement of the pads above the jog wheel is something not often seen, and while it may take you out of your comfort zone, we think you'll enjoy not accidentally slamming pads when you're getting into your mix.





Numark Mixtrack Edge

Some might say size matters, but the slim and small wins us over on the Numark Mixtrack Edge. At 3/4" tall and just over 10 1/2" wide, this is the David of DJ controllers. Utilizing an 1/8" master and 1/8" headphone output, the Mixtrack Edge is able to keep itself hidden, and makes the perfect backup or entry level DJ controller with all the fixins.








American Audio 10MXR

What do you get when you pull the jog wheels off a DJ controller? The MXR series from American Audio. That why this mixer-looking piece made the list. This DJ controller is perfect for beginners. Play and cue buttons. Hot cues, and XLR OUTPUTS!! While the big brothers have more features to them, all of these "mixers" can be classified as a DJ controller. Fully midi-mappable to any DJ software, but built for VDJ, these units rock.






The full range of DJ controllers is one of the most massive selections in the DJ equipment world. It's important that you explore your options. When it comes to DJ controllers for beginners, don't hesitate to ask questions and make sure you have everything you need.