Scratching is a DJ technique originally associated with vinyl records. More specifically, with moving of a vinyl record back and forth on a turntable in order to produce rhythmic or percussive sounds.
With technological development and entering into a new, digital age, vinyl records and cumbersome turntables are falling into oblivion and DJ controllers are becoming a DJing tool of the future.
But what about scratching? It surely doesn’t feel and sound as good when you do it on a DJ controller, right? A common misconception when it comes to scratching is that it can only be done properly using a vinyl record.
This couldn’t be further from the truth due to the fact that DJ controllers can be at least as exciting and good as vinyl records when it comes to producing scratching sounds. Presented below are therefore some of the key features you should look for in a DJ controller when it comes to scratching and the best DJ controllers for this purpose.
So, what to look for in a DJ controller for scratching?
- Latency: A good DJ controller needs to respond immediately in order to keep up with your scratching. It is true that digital latency may pose a problem, but only if a particular controller wasn’t designed to be integrated with certain software.In case you are using the right DJ controller and software combination, scratches only sound bad if you don’t have the right settings, or you simply need more practice.
- Number of Knobs/Pads/Inputs: It is always important that your DJ controller has enough knobs, pads, inputs and other features that enable you to use your controller either for producing live music or for mixing at home.All DJ controllers on our list have more than plenty of functions that allow you to use them for multiple purposes.
- Price: Price of a new DJ controller, unless you intend to use it professionally, should be reasonable. Another common mistake when buying a DJ controller is that people often think an expensive equipment will substitute the lack of experience and ability.Some of the best options for scratching can be found among the cheapest controllers.
- Size of jogwheels: Small jogs, in theory, present no barrier for great scratching. If you have a controller with jogwheels, you are most certainly able to create excellent scratching sounds. Nevertheless, larger jogs might be preferred for this purpose.
- Ability to beat juggle: Beat juggling is quite difficult, even on vinyl records which are constantly spinning as it takes a lot of skill and practice. Spinning is mainly not available on DJ controllers, especially on cheaper ones. Nonetheless, beat-juggling can be done even on a normal DJ controller.
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 DJ Controller
The DDJ-SB3 is a compact and durable DJ controller with an intuitive layout and premium quality.
It is a also a great learning tool for beginners to learn how to scratch. It provides a large, 5-inch aluminum jogwheels with decent amount of tension. These large and low-latency jogwheels will thus give you more than satisfactory response and accuracy.
The 2-channel controller is easy to navigate, combined with professional looking layout and with a variety of other features. In conclusion, excellent jog wheels, good performance pads and all features exactly where you want them are key characteristics of this controller.
- Level: beginner
- Power: USB only
- Inputs: 1 x microphone
- Outputs: 1 x RCA master, 1x headphone output
- Supported DJ software:Serato DJ Lite
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PROS |
CONS |
| · Excellent jog wheels
· Series of buttons around the jogs · Pad Scratch · Premium build quality |
· Small pitch fader
· Jogs center could be more creative |
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 DJ controller
The DDJ-SB2 is an entry-level DJ controller with a variety of features and great performance.
The DDJ-SB2 offers a decent size jog wheels with low latency that provides a great scratching feeling and sound. Unlike professional DJ gear, DDJ-SB2 seems to be lacking the center display, which is replaced by a simple sticker.
8 performance pads combined with an easy to user interface and all basic functions, represent an awesome beginner deck that should only be replaced once you become more accustomed and a need for professional-level DJ controller occurs.
- Level: beginner
- Power: USB only
- Inputs: 1 x MIC
- Outputs: 1 x headphone, 1 x RCA master
- Supported DJ software: Serato DJ Lite
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PROS |
CONS |
| · Excellent jog wheels
· Very affordable · Compact |
· Small pitch fader
· Only 1 mic input and no aux input |
Denon DJ MC 4000 DJ controller
The Denon DJ MC 4000 is a premium and a good looking controller that provides you a professional feeling. It
has a full metal face plate that will instantly make you feel like a pro. Jog wheels feel solid and durable. What is more, they are touch-activated for accurate scratching and track cueing.
This controller is primarily intended for those who are constantly on the road as it offers a number of inputs and out puts. Alongside with other features, Denon DJ MC 4000 represents one of the best price to ratio options for a beginner DJ.
- Level: beginner
- Power: USB/ external
- Inputs: 2 x MIC
- Outputs: 2 x headphone, 3 x audio, 2 x booth
- Supported DJ software: Serato DJ Intro
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PROS |
CONS |
| · Number of outputs
· Large pitch fader · Premium build · Great sound |
· VU meters
· Limited support for performance-oriented features |
Numark NS7III DJ controller
The Numark NS7III is a premier four-deck controller that offers some unique features and is suitable for professional users also. This is a premium Serato DJ controller with three HD color screens that can be used instead of your laptop screen and enable you to focus on your DJing experience.When it comes to scratching, authentic vinyl records will provide you the sense of a professional DJ turntable.
Apart from that, Numark NS7III is a premium controller, built like a tank, with two channels and large motorized platters and some other professional features like Serato NoiseMap, 24-bit USB 2.0 audio interface, and many others.
- Level: beginner and professional
- Power: power supply
- Inputs: 2 x MIC, 2 x RCA
- Outputs: 2 x headphone, 2 x audio, 1 x booth
- Supported DJ software: Serato DJ Pro
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PROS |
CONS |
| · 3 HD screens provide real-time feedback
· Premium build · Spinning platters |
· A bit too big to be actually portable
· price |