3. DJ Controller

External DJ controllers often allow for far more intuitive controlling thanks to the additional tactile dimension they offer. They provide a more "hands-on" approach modelled on classic DJing than exclusively software-based solutions.

Another advantage is that many current controllers already come with an integrated audio interface, so that a laptop setup, for example, receives a direct upgrade in two components.

Function groups

The DJ controllers available on the market may in the first instance be grouped according to the range of functions they offer.

DJ Controller

The range of available functions can be roughly grouped into 4 different groups of controls:

• Audio file management ("Browsing Control“)
• Audio file playback ("Playback“ and "Timecode Control“)
• Audio file mixing ("Mixing Control“)
• Changing audio files by adding effects ("Effect Control")

Browsing Control

The controller features a section dedicated to navigating through playlists and folders as well as to loading the tracks.

Browsing Control

Typical controls are :

• Selection button
• Navigation keys
• Load buttons

Playback Control

While playing back tracks, you can fast forward and rewind, scratch, and alter the speed (pitch). The sync function allows the user to synchronise the playback speed of two players A>B. Setting cues within a track facilitates finding these preselected points.

Playback Control

Typical controls are:

• Jog wheel (fast forward/rewind, scratch)
• Play/Cue (Cue points)
• Pitch Bend (speed up/down)
• Tempo
• Sync
• Keylock

Timecode Control

Timecode control allows classic techniques familiar from turntables and CD players with digital audio files, too, e.g. backspinning, beatmatching, or scratching.

This is achieved using special timecode CDs or vinyls which can be used directly on conventional turntables and CD players.

Through an interface, the timecode signal controls:

• Speed
• Song position
• Forward
• Rewind

Timecode-Operation

Mixing Control

Many controllers feature an integrated DJ mixer; some devices (those with integrated audio interface) even work without being connected to a PC.

Mixing Control

Typical controls:

• Trim/Gain rotary control
• Vertical channel faders
• 3 EQ-rotary controls per channel
• Pre-listening key per channel
• Pre-listening volume control
• Horizontal crossfader
• Master rotary control

Effects Control

Effects are the spice of musical life. Starting from filters through kill EQs all the way to sampling: the sky's the limit. Features-wise, you get what you pay for.

Effects Control

Typical controls:

• infinite rotary controls
• graded infinite rotary controls
• Buttons