DJing is, of course, about more than just track playback. You can augment your set with a laptop that allows for playback using MIDI controller devices designed for DAWs rather than decks. Some of these devices just get made to be enjoyed forever. Today, we’ll pick out three classic MIDI controllers for DJing that deserve the title of ‘legendary’.
Ableton Push
The ultimate controller for the DJ who also wants to express their own musicality (without necessarily first studying classical piano). Ableton Push picked up where the APC40 took off, providing controllerists with their own multi-colored, pressure-sensitive grid of pads. Perfect for live looping, finger drumming and even playing with sophistication.
Novation Launchpad Pro
The Launchpad Pro has earned its place as a staple in the world of grid controllers. It’s flexible enough to be played with a variety of devices. It allows for creativity in sequencing new patterns and plays well with pretty much everyone! The velocity-sensitive pads give you that expressive element. Scale mode makes it easy to generate melodies, avoiding all the bum notes on the way. Use it as a standalone controller.
Arturia BeatStep Pro
Aside from its unusual interface, which combines a sequencer, knobs and a transport section, The BeatStep Pro is a fantastic way to generate new patterns on the fly. Unline many DAW controllers, it gives you the ability to control both hardware and software. Every so often, you need a new approach for music production and performance. And despite its lower-than-the-rest price tag, the BeatStep is no toy. Shape your experimentation with this one.
DAW controllers allow DJs to be more than jukeboxes. We’re mostly a talented bunch. Many of us play instruments and intuitively know our way around controller equipment. Take your adventure to the next level by getting specific. Focus on this Ableton Live software course for the next while and watch your new skills start earning props.