{"id":330,"date":"2021-10-25T12:12:44","date_gmt":"2021-10-25T12:12:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/spinbad.com\/?p=330"},"modified":"2021-11-23T11:26:23","modified_gmt":"2021-11-23T11:26:23","slug":"best-dj-controller-for-scratching","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/spinbad.com\/best-dj-controller-for-scratching\/","title":{"rendered":"Best DJ Controller For Scratching"},"content":{"rendered":"
The war between digital and analog gear has been raging for decades now. The conflict is centered around a singular tension: digital is more convenient, while analog setups have more heart.<\/p>\n
As a DJ, you can conquer the world with nothing but a controller and a laptop \u2014 no more lugging around crates of vinyl! But, when you go digital, some things get lost in translation.<\/p>\n
To lighten your load, you have to sacrifice analog warmth and feel, the absence of which, can really take the magic out of scratching, but what if I told you not all DJ controllers are cold, clinical machines?<\/p>\n
That\u2019s right, friend; there are some DJ controllers out there designed to feel and sound as \u201cnatural\u201d as possible, combining modern appointments with traditional soul, and I\u2019m going to show you the best of the best, right here, right now!<\/p>\n
OUR TOP PICK<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>\n Rane DJ Twelve MKII<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n EDITORS CHOICE<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>\n Rane One<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n BEST VALUE<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/a>\n Hercules DJ DJControl Starlight<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n OUR TOP PICK<\/strong><\/p>\n The Rane Twelve looks almost exactly like a standard turntable, which is one of the reasons it\u2019s such a great option for scratch DJs taking the digital plunge after years of walking the analog path.<\/p>\n Featuring a 12\u201d motorized platter that moves just like the one on your turntable, you won\u2019t have to alter your scratching technique to account for a static jogwheel, and the grooved acrylic top plate really feels the part.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also built like a tank, which is both a blessing and a curse. It can certainly roll with the punches \u2014 perfect for a gigging DJ. But, on the other hand, it\u2019s not as portable as it could be.<\/p>\n The spindle has a data resolution of 3600 ticks, which equates to 10 bits of midi data for every 1 degree of platter movement. In layman\u2019s terms, that means it\u2019s incredibly accurate, facilitating super tight, detailed scratching.<\/p>\n Tying things in a nice, neat bow is the broad software compatibility. Whether you prefer Serato, Traktor, or Virtual DJ, the Rane Twelve slides seamlessly into the ecosystem, ensuring zero latency issues while you scratch up a storm!<\/p>\n Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n \n Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n EDITORS CHOICE<\/strong><\/p>\n Much like the Twelve, the Rane One boasts motorized platters with acrylic tops that feel so real, if you closed your eyes, you wouldn\u2019t know the difference between this controller and your actual turntables.<\/p>\n There\u2019s a lot about the One that makes it a great all-around controller, but the thing you\u2019ll be most interested in as a scratcher is the super light, customizable Mag Four crossfader.<\/p>\n It\u2019s built to endure millions of interactions, and the response can be sharpened to perfection for some insanely articulate scratching sessions.<\/p>\n The layout is well-spaced and surprisingly intuitive for the amount of functionality stuffed into this unit, and the zero-latency performance with the included Serato software makes scratching an absolute joy.<\/p>\n One small gripe is that it doesn\u2019t feature any onboard effects, but that just means you can get crazy with your plugins and peripherals!<\/p>\n Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n \n Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n BEST VALUE<\/strong><\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a scratching machine on a budget, or you need a super portable controller for keeping your scratching skills keen on the road, then the Starlight should be a serious consideration.<\/p>\n Being that it\u2019s so small, there are a few obvious downsides. For one, the jogwheels are tiny, but they\u2019re also pressure sensitive and incredibly responsive when the time comes for some hands-on DJing.<\/p>\n It doesn\u2019t have full 3-band EQ, but the dedicated bass control is all you need to mix your tracks without creating too much of a muddy overlap or overwhelming your speakers.<\/p>\n In order to cram as much functionality as possible into such a diminutive device, many knobs have secondary modes, which is great, but it\u2019s a strange workflow that takes some getting used to.<\/p>\n In the grand scheme of things, there are better scratching controllers out there, especially as the Starlight arrives with the watered-down Serato Lite, but considering the form factor, it\u2019s impressive nonetheless.<\/p>\n Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n \n Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n RUNNER UP<\/strong><\/p>\n The Numark Mixtrack Pro 3 may not have motorized jogwheels, but at 5 inches, they provide plenty of finger room, and their high-res technology guarantees accuracy when you\u2019re chopping a track up with some sick scratches.<\/p>\n Unlike the standard Mixtrack 3, the Mixtrack Pro 3 features an integrated audio interface<\/a>, amounting to a truly all-in-1 unit that need only be paired with your laptop.<\/p>\n And speaking of all-in-1 functionality, the Pro 3 also includes 6 effects buttons and two dedicated filters to spice up your set.<\/p>\n The crossfader feels alright, but it\u2019s not the most durable fader in the world. A few users have reported that it becomes a little erratic after a while, so it pays to switch it out early on.<\/p>\n The rest of the controller, however, is built incredibly well. The primary material is a high-quality polymer that\u2019s both robust and lightweight, making the Pro 3 a great choice for the gigging DJ.<\/p>\n Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n \n Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n RUNNER UP<\/strong><\/p>\n The S4 Mk3 from industry stalwarts Native Instruments features two large, motorized jogwheels, providing that essential torque and realistic resistance during scratching.<\/p>\n They don\u2019t feel much like a vinyl record, but that\u2019s not to say that it\u2019s an unpleasant experience to scratch on them. On the contrary, the brushed metal surface feels nice and tactile, but it takes some getting used to.<\/p>\n They\u2019re marketed as \u201cHaptic Feedback\u201d jogwheels, and what that means is that they\u2019ll alert you when the playhead crosses a cue, so you can get lost in your performance instead of keeping a watchful eye on your laptop.<\/p>\n In the S4, Native Instruments treats you to 8 baked-in effects and three types of filter, giving you plenty of tools to experiment and keep things fresh for yourself and your audience.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, the crossfader lets the S4 down. It\u2019s just not up to scratch (pun definitely intended), but after a swift aftermarket mod, this would be one mean DJ controller!<\/p>\n Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n \n Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n There are a few key features of a DJ controller that will significantly improve the sound and feel of scratching. Here\u2019s what you should be looking for.<\/span><\/p>\n Most DJ controller jogwheels don\u2019t move, which is an issue for the analog scratchers out there. As you\u2019re aware, turntables, well…turn, creating torque. This force creates resistance when scratching real vinyl.<\/p>\n When making the transition from turntables to controllers, the absence of torque can really throw you off your scratching game.<\/p>\n Of course, if you knuckle down and practice on static jogwheels, you\u2019ll get used to the feel, but why put yourself through the hassle if there\u2019s an alternative? <\/p>\n They\u2019re not too common, but DJ controllers with motorized jogwheels do exist. As they replicate the feeling of spinning platters, they smooth out the transition from turntables to DJ controllers a great deal, especially when it comes to scratching.<\/p>\n For the uninitiated, a crossfader controls the signal inputs arriving from either side of your deck. When scratching, a DJ will use one hand to manipulate the vinyl and the other to slide the crossfader, which is how that choppy, rhythmic sound is achieved.<\/p>\n As a current or future scratch lord, you\u2019re going to be subjecting your crossfader to some serious abuse, which means it needs to be sturdy. Unfortunately, many DJ controllers drop the ball in this department.<\/p>\n Your crossfader should feel smooth, but not too loose. A small amount of resistance is perfect.<\/p>\n A lot of affordable DJ controllers arrive with carbon track crossfaders, but in my experience, they feel a little flimsy.<\/p>\n What you need is a DJ controller with a magnetic or capacitive crossfader. They\u2019re usually highly accurate, tweakable, and stand the test of time.<\/p>\n A crossfader curve refers to the immediacy of one signal fading into another when you slide the crossfader. A crossfader curve knob allows you to adjust the rate at which the signals blend.<\/p>\n For example, if you set the curve knob to its slowest rate, as you slide the crossfader, the second signal will fade in ever so gently, which is fantastic for mixing.<\/p>\n For scratching, on the other hand, you\u2019ll need a crossfader curve control capable of speeding up the fade to a stark stop at the halfway point. That\u2019s what will give your scratching the classic cutting sound.<\/p>\n The sharper the control can make the crossfader curve, the shorter the travel of the crossfader to chop audio, meaning you can engage in some super speedy, rhythmic scratching.<\/p>\n Okay, so I know that one of the key benefits of a DJ controller is its portability, but it\u2019s important you don\u2019t choose something too small.<\/p>\n A smaller unit means the controls will be very cramped, forcing you into uncomfortable positions during a performance. If you’re going to scratch to the best of your abilities, you need to feel relaxed behind the decks, so well-spaced controls are a no-brainer.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re used to scratching your 12\u201d records on a turntable, choosing a DJ controller with small jogwheels will feel wholly unnatural. A larger jogwheel(s) will help you feel more at home.<\/p>\n Most units will arrive with some form of software, and it can make or break a DJ controller. The DJ software is just as important as the controller itself. It needs to be well-designed, feature-rich, and easy to use \u2014 you need to feel comfortable using it!<\/p>\n As a general rule of thumb, you should never purchase a DJ controller before researching or trying out the accompanying software. Talk to other DJs about it, read up on some reviews, and source a trial version if you can.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve already got a go-to software, make sure your prospective controller fits well into its ecosystem, otherwise, latency issues will make scratching impossible.<\/p>\n Your DJ controller should have all the ports you need to hook it up to your other gear.<\/p>\n You should consider what gear you may pick up in the future too. Spending a little more for a future-proof controller with an expansive I\/O array is definitely worth it, in my opinion.<\/p>\n P.S. An integrated sound card is also a must!<\/p>\n We all love a bargain, but the truth of the matter is that the features that make a DJ controller good for scratching bump the price up significantly, so I\u2019d prepare your bank account for a hit!<\/p>\n Still with me? Fantastic! Before we go our separate ways, let\u2019s spin through a quick FAQ list.<\/p>\n You can indeed scratch on most DJ controllers, even if they have static jogwheels, but it won\u2019t feel or sound quite the same as scratching vinyl on a turntable. Your best bet is to choose a DJ controller designed to emulate real turntables as closely as possible.<\/p>\n With the right controller, as long as your scratching skills are on point, no one will be able to tell you\u2019re using a digital rather than analog setup.<\/p>\n While you can learn to scratch in a relatively harmless manner, it\u2019s inevitable that a record will pick up some damage eventually, no matter how good of a scratch DJ you are.<\/p>\n This is another massive feather in the DJ controller\u2019s digital cap. You don\u2019t need to touch or even be near a vinyl record to bring the house down at a gig, meaning your pride and joy record collection can stay at home, safe and sound!<\/p>\n It\u2019s always a good idea to pump the brakes on a budget if you\u2019re looking to pick up your first DJ controller. At this point, you don\u2019t know if you\u2019re going to enjoy using a digital setup or DJing in general.<\/p>\n For learning the basics, you only need a basic unit. Granted, it won\u2019t be the best for scratching, but you can always sell and upgrade when you feel you\u2019ve outgrown it.<\/p>\n I\u2019d recommend spending between $100 and $260 on your first controller.<\/p>\n There is no one size fits all answer to which DJ software is best. It all comes down to your preferences, skill level, and what you\u2019re trying to accomplish with your music and performances.<\/p>\n That said, there are certain programs that have found extensive notoriety the world over. These include\u2026<\/p>\n Scratching on a DJ controller only really sounds a little different because there’s no needle to jump, and you don\u2019t hear any of the hissing or popping usually associated with vinyl.<\/p>\n Okay, so here\u2019s the thing…there are always going to be some purist snobs out there that look down on those who scratch on a DJ controller, but we are currently witnessing a seismic shift in perception. <\/p>\n Tons of world-class DJs swear by their controllers for all aspects of their art \u2014 scratching included. The general consensus in this digital revolution is that what really matters is your skills and your passion. If you have those spades, the digital vs analog debate is irrelevant.<\/p>\n I hope this article puts a lot of the myths about DJ controllers falling short in the world of scratching to rest, as they\u2019re simply not true. There are plenty out there designed to make the transition from analog to digital as pain-free as possible!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" 5 DJ Controllers That Will Cure Your Fear Of Digital Gear The war between digital and analog gear has been raging for decades now. The conflict is centered around a singular tension: digital is more convenient, while analog setups have more heart. As a DJ, you can conquer the world with nothing but a controller 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DJ Twelve MKII<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/a>\n
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Rane One<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/a>\n
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Hercules DJ DJControl Starlight<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/a>\n
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Numark Mixtrack Pro 3<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/a>\n
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Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S4 Mk3<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/a>\n
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Best DJ Controller For Scratching \u2014 Buyer\u2019s Guide<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Essential DJ Controller Features For Scratching<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Motorized Jogwheels<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Crossfaders<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Crossfader Curve Controls<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Controller Dimensions<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Jogwheel Size<\/strong><\/h4>\n
General DJ Controller Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Software<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Compatibility (I\/O)<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Budget<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Can You Scratch With A DJ Controller?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Does DJ Scratching Damage Records?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How Much Should I Spend On My First DJ Controller?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What DJ Software Is Best?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Why Does Scratching Sound Different On DJ Controllers?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Will I Be Respected For Scratching On A DJ Controller?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Best DJ Controller For Scratching \u2014 The Final Word<\/strong><\/h2>\n