DJ Mixer vs. Controller - Which is Better Suited for Your Setup?

When searching for new DJ equipment, the legitimate question arises of whether you need a traditional DJ setup, i.e., a DJ mixer and a pair of media players like CDJs or turntables, or if a controller is sufficient.

We've already covered the basics of the most common DJ setups in a previous article, but this question is still frequently asked, so we'll try to clarify things a bit so that you can make the best possible decision. If you're not familiar with the various setups, you should read the above article first.

Before delving too deeply into the technology and discussing the pros and cons of the various systems, you should first ask yourself what exactly your goal and purpose as a DJ are:

• Do you want to try out a new hobby?
• Do you want to enter the DJ scene and occasionally host a few parties?
• Are you planning to run a business (or already have one), such as a wedding DJ?
• Do you want to open your own club or host your own festival/event series?

Answering these questions will help you lay the groundwork for the equipment question.

One thing that needs to be made clear from the outset is that both setups serve the same purpose and neither is superior when it comes to learning to DJ or developing new skills. These are only achieved through countless hours of "practice." However, each setup has its advantages in different situations.

Some of the main advantages of controllers are price, variety, and portability, while standalone devices offer flexibility, comfort, and a simpler workflow.

Is it all a matter of price?

Let's talk about price first.
There's no scenario where you can get a complete standalone setup for the price of an entry-level controller. However, if you're just starting out, the controller might offer the best value for money (provided you already have a computer that meets the DJ software requirements), as you'll get all the standard DJ features like EQ controls, volume controls, and jog wheels.

However, keep in mind with controllers that, while they may be cheaper to purchase, you still have to factor in the cost of a decent laptop.

Controllers offer convenience, but all processing still takes place on the computer. This can become a problem in two situations:

• The computer doesn't have enough processing power and memory
• The computer is also used for other activities, such as work, gaming, or browsing the internet

Although it's generally okay to use DJ software on a computer that's also used for other purposes, DJ software can consume a lot of processor and memory resources and completely slow down the computer if multiple other applications are open simultaneously. If you're making progress and starting to play gigs regularly, you should consider dedicating a laptop solely for DJing and keeping it separate from personal use.

Wide Selection of Controllers

There is also a wide variety of controllers, ranging from beginner tools for DJs to high-performance devices for professionals. Some controllers are more compact and only have the essential connections, while others feature the same advanced components found in professional DJ mixers and players according to club standards, along with sound cards capable of controlling large sound systems.

They can also be a good choice for DJs who are constantly on the go and need to bring their own equipment (e.g., wedding DJs). While a setup with a Denon DJ SC6000 Prime + Denon DJ X1850 Mixer weighs just over 18 kg, plus the additional weight of separate Flightcases, a Denon DJ Prime 4 controller weighs just under 10 kg. Additionally, you'll have fewer cables to lug around.

Some controllers also function as standalone devices (like the Prime 4 mentioned above or all controllers in Pioneer DJ's XDJ series). For all other DJ controllers, you rely on the included software package (usually Rekordbox, Serato, Traktor, or Virtual DJ). Although each of these software packages has very advanced features, it's still software that needs to be installed on a computer to use the controller.

Of course, this isn't a problem if you're the only one using the controller, but once you start inviting other DJs to play, they probably won't be keen on buying, installing, and getting used to a specific DJ software to play their music (unless they're using the same software).

In summary, it could be said that a non-standalone controller can work great as long as you're the only one using it, but it can become problematic once you start inviting other DJs to your events.

It can also become an issue if you're invited as a DJ to a venue and your workflow depends on your software and controller, as organizers don't like to change equipment during an event. Most likely, they'll entrust you with a few devices like CDJs and perhaps turntables, and the rest is up to you.

Advantages of Mixer Player Combination

This doesn't mean that a complete standalone system is necessarily required, but it's advisable to at least be familiar with the workflow of the most common standalone devices.

Many DJs also use standalone devices in their home setups because they simply don't like dealing with computer hassles. Playing tracks from a USB stick or even vinyl is very straightforward, and switching between DJs can be seamless with this kind of setup.

Another advantage of standalone devices is that you can upgrade the mixer and players separately, and repair costs in case of malfunction will likely be lower since you won't need to send the entire system for service. You can combine any DJ mixer with any type of DJ players, and turntables can be added to the setup at any time.

For example, if you don't like the workflow or sound of Pioneer DJ mixers, you can always swap them out for an Allen & Heath, Denon DJ, Ecler, or another brand. Speaking of turntables: if you want to add them to your setup, that's the way to go, as almost every DJ mixer has Phono inputs.

If you want to connect a turntable to a controller, make sure it has Phono inputs in its mixer section. Some options for this include the Pioneer DJ DDJ-800 and above, Denon DJ Prime 2/ Prime 4, Traktor Kontrol S4 MK3, Gemini SDJ-4000, Roland DJ 505 / 707M / 808.

If an event or series of events is to feature guest DJs, it's important to note that most DJs will ask for Pioneer DJ players and usually also for Pioneer DJ or Allen & Heath mixers for hire. Denon DJ also offers very advanced devices, but Pioneer DJ has been in clubs for 25 years, making them the obvious choice for organizers since they're very reliable and most DJs know their workflow.

Whatever the preferred choice, it's best to be familiar with the types of setups, various DJ software, and equipment from different manufacturers. This way, you can make decisions more easily in the future and adapt much more easily to any situation.