Numark MIDI NS7

Motorised turntables send scratch movements directly to the DJ software, providing a playing feel close to that of a classic turntable. The Numark NS7 is a two-deck DJ controller with an integrated mixer and USB audio interface, designed to control Serato ITCH. Two direct-drive 7-inch turntables with adjustable torque let you tailor the response to your preferred playing style.

The decks offer five Hot Cue buttons per side and a touch-sensitive Strip Search bar that lets you jump directly to a position in the track. Manual and automatic loop functions are available, with adjustable length and position. 100 mm pitch faders, Pitch Bend buttons and a zero-point LED help you match the tempo. The illuminated controls and library rotary encoder make track selection and navigation easier without a mouse or keyboard.

An integrated USB 2.0 audio interface transfers audio at 24-bit/44.1 kHz. For connecting to a PA or sound system, there are balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA master outputs; a separate RCA booth output supplies DJ monitoring. Microphone and line inputs are on the front. You will also find 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm headphone outputs there, each with its own volume control.

The NS7 sends MIDI data over USB at more than ten times the standard MIDI speed. In addition to its intended control of Serato ITCH, you can use the controls with MIDI-compatible DJ software; numerous controls can be freely assigned. CP-PRO crossfader and D-TYPE channel faders are replaceable. The metal construction and integrated laptop stand are also part of the package.

Serato ITCH is tailored to the hardware and supports importing crates, loops and cue points from Scratch LIVE. The software includes Auto BPM, Key Lock and pitch ranges of ±8%, ±16% and ±50%, among other features. Supported audio formats are AIFF, WAV, MP3 and AAC. A computer with a USB port is required for operation; the minimum requirements stated in the original article are listed in the specifications section.

With motorised decks, integrated audio technology and direct connection options, the controller is suitable for scratch and club DJ setups where hardware control is the priority. XLR, RCA and booth outputs cover connections to a PA and separate booth monitoring; a microphone, line source and headphones can also be connected directly.