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The 5 BEST DJ Controllers of 2021

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The 5 BEST DJ Controllers of 2021

The 5 BEST DJ Controllers of 2021

2021 is coming to a close so we are going to review some of the best DJ Controllers from the year. Watch our video covering a variety of DJ controllers at price points to help you find something that fits your budget.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT

#1 Pick – Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-1000SRT gives you full control of Serato DJ software and gives you everything you need to DJ live events and parties. 

The DDJ-1000SRT is our #1 pick because it is a powerful controller that you can use to DJ any type of event or club and at $1,350 is really a great value for pro level gear.

The DDJ-1000 has 4 inputs so you can connect to CDJs or analog turntables, and use it as a stand-alone DJ mixer. You can also connect directly to PA speakers and microphones thanks to a Booth, 2 Masters with XLR Out, and 2 Mic inputs.

Also, check out this video we made that reviews the HL12000 from Headliner. This is a great carrying case made specifically for either version of the DDJ-1000 and will keep your controller safe without adding a ton of weight.

The DDJ-1000SRT has a current retail price of $1350 and will take your gigs to the next level.

Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6

#1 Value – Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 is a strong DJ system with great value because it is a strong controller that retails for $599.

The DDJ-FLX6 is features full size jog wheels, Merge FX, and dual sample decks. The jog wheels on this unit are the same you’ll find on the industry standard CDJ-3000, which will help you get a feel for top of the line gear, while you sharpen your skills at a lower price point.

This controller features two decks to play your tracks, while the other two decks support sample playback. Using the rekordbox Sample Scratch feature, you can load up samples and layer them over your mix. When used along with Jog Cutter mode, you can take samples you’ve loaded into your sample decks and use them as the sonic basis for the Jog Cutter effect.

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 is compatible with both rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro software, and  is in stock today and ready to ship. The Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 retails for $599. 

RANE One

#2 Overall Pick – RANE One

The Rane One Motorized DJ Controller stands out from competitors with 7 inch motorized platters.

The RANE One was created to take your DJ skills to the next level and is made by a legendary company in the DJ space. The RANE One is our #2 overall pick because it is a strong controller with motorized platters but is higher in price than the other units shown here retailing for $1,599.

The first thing you will notice about this unit are the 7 inch motorized platters, which give you an authentic turntable-like control over this unit. These motorized platters come with an adjustable torque setting which allows you to customize the performance to your style. This is the main feature that sets the RANE One apart from competitors, other controllers at this price point simply do not have motorized platters.

Another big feature of this unit is the Mag Four crossfader. This is the lightest crossfader from Rane yet, and also features an adjustment capability that gives you the freedom to adjust the tension and fit the crossfader to your style.

The RANE One also features dual USB connections which are ideal for clubs and multi-DJ setups where quick DJ switches are necessary without stopping the music.

The RANE One comes with Serato DJ Pro and has a current MSRP of $1599. 

Hercules Inpulse 500

Best Budget Release of 2020/2021 – Hercules Inpulse 500

The Hercules Inpulse 500 is a solid entry level controller that is perfect for beginner club and mobile DJs but also works well as a backup controller for Pros. 

This is a great budget option because it only costs $299 and we all know, gear can fail at any time. You need to be prepared to finish the gig no matter what.

Having a backup controller like the Inpulse 500 is a great way to stay prepared in case of an emergency. The Inpulse 500 includes a balanced 1/4″ microphone input, aux output, and live streaming support for DJs looking to share their set online in real time.

Hercules is known for entry level controllers and sometimes limiting the amount of features is beneficial for entry level DJs. Less distractions allow you to focus on mixing and becoming a better DJ; you can always upgrade your controller as you become more experienced.

The Hercules Inpulse 500 retails for $299.

Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ

#1 Standalone Controller – Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ 

The Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ is an all in one DJ system that is perfect for live performances and studio work alike. 

This is a bigger budget investment compared to other controllers on this list and is an all in one system that will have you ready for any club or event. This piece is quickly replacing the SZ2 as a club standard, and has replaced some of the full CDJ setups as a club standard.

The flexible media support of this unit allows you to use an external USB drive or laptop to load your music and does not require a laptop connection.

The XDJ-XZ is also the first all in one controller that supports Pro DJ Link, which is Pioneer’s innovative DJ tool that can also be found in the CDJ and XDJ controllers. Pro DJ Link allows you to load music from a laptop or smartphone, and share metadata between multiple units, as well as sync CDJs and other media players with your mix.

The XDJ-XZ also allows you to connect up to two laptops at a time for back-to-back performances and smooth handoffs when mixing with multiple DJs. This has helped establish it as a standard in the nightclub scene, and is a great value alternative to a full CDJ Setup.

The Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ comes with Rekordbox DJ software and retails for $2,399.

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Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and visit our website for more great content for all of your DJ and audio production needs. Also, come visit us in person at Musically Yours at 283 Main Street in Hackensack, New Jersey.

CategoriesBlog, DJ Mixers, DJ Turntables, Product Videos by

3 Best DJ Controllers Under $1,600

YouTube video

Here are the BEST DJ controllers under $1,600. These DJ controllers are perfect for intermediate DJs looking to upgrade and are also great for a pro DJ looking for a solid backup controller. We are going to cover and compare features on these products to help you make a decision on which one is best for you.

Mr. Wired Up with DDJ-1000, RANE One, and Denon Prime 2


Pioneer DDJ-1000 and DDJ-1000SRT


The Pioneer DDJ-1000 and DDJ-1000SRT is a 4 deck controller with 4 inputs, on-jog display, and dual usb inputs. The DDJ-1000 full-size jog wheels with On Jog Display, shows you important track information in the center of each jog wheel, making it easy to keep focused on the crowd and not on your laptop. The Pioneer DDJ-1000 controller will take your DJ gigs to the next level immediately.

RANE One

RANE One

The Rane ONE Professional Motorized DJ Controller is a unique controller that sets itself apart from competitors with 7 inch motorized platters. The RANE ONE Motorized DJ Controller takes the high-performance features, reliability and exceptional quality we’re trusted for and without compromise, combines them into the ultimate motorized DJ controller. 

The Mag Four crossfader is the lightest crossfader from Rane yet, and also features an adjustment capability that gives you the freedom to adjust the tension and fit the crossfader to your style.

The RANE One comes with Serato DJ Pro and has a current MSRP of $1599.

 Denon DJ Prime 2

The Denon DJ Prime 2 is a standalone DJ controller, unlike the others, the Prime 2 does not require a laptop. The Denon DJ Prime 2 is also enabled for WiFi internet connectivity, enabling streaming playback from Beatport LINK, Beatsource LINK, SoundCloud GO+, and TIDAL. Dropbox support allows you to access your personal music collection on your Prime 2 controller.

The Denon DJ Prime 2 uses Engine OS System, reads rekordbox and Serato Libraries, and has an MSRP of $1400.

Get Started with These Controllers Today!

Watch our video for the Best DJ Controllers Under $1,600 on YouTube and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more great content for all of your DJ and audio production needs. These DJ controllers will help you upgrade your DJ skills right away!

CategoriesDJ Turntables by

Should a Belt Driven Turntable be Part of your DJ Equipment?

When it comes to DJing and which method of playback is best, it is really a personal decision. The way music sounds varies from person to person, so when trying to decide between computer-generated technics, direct drive turntables or belt drive turntables, it is best to try them all and choose the one that sounds best to you and fits your budget. Whether you are just starting out, or you are looking to buy DJ equipment to replace or update your old stuff, keep in mind that not all sound equipment is created equal. If you’ve been thinking a belt drive turntable is something you would like to try, keep reading to find out why it may or may not be the ideal choice for you.

First of all, let’s take a look at the three different types of playback DJs might use.

DJ Equipment

Computer Technics, Direct Drive Turntables and Belt Drive Turntables

Computer technics are self-explanatory. DJs use a computer, usually a laptop, to control music playback. While it is the most common type of playback used today because it is easy and fast, it doesn’t always produce the best sound quality. One of the biggest pros to using computers to play music is they provide a consistent speed at which the music is played. There is no variation in BPM so the music always sounds the same.

With a direct drive turntable, the motor that turns the platter is directly underneath the platter. While this provides a fairly consistent speed, it also allows vibration and motor noise to interfere with sound quality. If a DJ uses a turntable, it is most likely going to be of this type because the motor placement allows him to manipulate the platter by hand, stopping and even reversing the platter for ‘scratching.’ Another reason this type of turntable is popular is because it is often a cheaper option than its belt drive counterpart.

On a belt drive turntable, the motor is offset from the platter. The motor is connected to the platter with a belt loop that acts as a shock absorber. This helps prevent vibration and noise from the motor from reaching the platter. Sound quality is typically much better on a belt drive machine than a direct drive one.

Unfortunately, belt drive turntables are often more expensive, and they have the wear and tear factor with the belt loop needing replaced periodically. For someone just starting out in the DJ realm, it might not make sense to purchase a belt drive model right away. However, it is something to think about in the not-too-distant future for several reason.

Reasons to consider DJ Equipment Packages for Belt Drive Turntables

Audiophiles the world over have argued about which turntable is best for DJing without ever really coming to any one conclusion. DJ equipment packages for belt drive turntables may not be for everyone, but for some, it is the only way to go. Here’s why.

Spinning Vinyl shows a Dedication to the Art

Show up at an event carrying a couple of crates of vinyl records and a mono stick, and watch how everyone treats you with respect. Spinning vinyl isn’t just a job, it’s a passion.

It shows your Respect for the DJs that came before you

There’s nothing quite like hearing stories told by old-timer DJ who mastered their craft on a turntable. There is a certain amount of respect for these guys and gals who used their ears and their hearts to make beautiful music for the masses. When you choose to follow in their footsteps, you show an unspoken respect that’s rightly deserved.

Using a Turntable forces you to focus on your Music

Anyone can download a rockin’ playlist to their computer and DJ like a pro in a crowded nightclub. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to do that. However, it does take talent and a true understanding of what people want to hear to find and play the best, most unique collection that paying customers beg to hear. The trick to being a great DJ is having a collection that includes some of the most unique and unheard sounds around. When you use a turntable, it opens up opportunities to have music that only gets released on vinyl. You’ll spend a lot of time searching record shops, garage sales and Goodwill stores in search of that awesome collection. You can even buy your records online if you want. Making a rockin’ collection this way forces you to really listen to the sounds and focus on what appeals to you most.

Lastly, you’ll learn how to scratch

It’s been said that scratching is easier on a direct drive turntable, but it is possible on a belt drive turntable as well. You can even ‘scratch’ on a computer, but the sound just isn’t the same as coming from true vinyl.

You might say you aren’t going to scratch, but we bet you at least try a little bit.

Buy DJ Equipment for sale

If you’re in the market for a new turntable, DJ mixers, DJ controllers and more, give us a call at 973-506-8001 to find the best DJ equipment on the market today. Our staff has a love of music and an expertise in the field unlike any other. Let us help you get the equipment you need to get your DJ business rockin’.