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• 9.60/10 1. Premium pick: 2021 Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch M1 Chip
• 8.80/10 2. Editors choice: Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 4-Deck DJ Controller
• 8.80/10 3. Best value: Hercules Starlight Compact DJ Control
• 9.20/10 4. Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K Turntable
• 9.40/10 5. Sennheiser Headphone HD 25
• 10.00/10 6. KRK Classic 8 Powered Two-Way Studio Monitor
• 8.60/10 7. U King Stage Lights With Moving Heads
• 9.00/10 8. Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 2-channel Mixer
• 9.00/10 9. Pioneer DJ DDJ-XP2 Control Surface

In recent years, technology has changed the way that we acquire, store, and listen to music. In the late 90s, the first MP3 players hit the shelves, eventually rendering CDs, tapes, and vinyl records almost obsolete. Of course, these improvements had a direct effect on DJ equipment, techniques, and abilities.

Modern DJ equipment is predominantly focused on digital forms of music, and the trusty turntable has been replaced with a simple laptop and controller. This means that transporting your equipment and music collection to and from gigs has never been easier, and while some may lament the old-school days, most will agree that the benefits of using digital audio equipment, and the range of functions it provides, far outweigh the nostalgia.

Here is the best DJ equipment available right now.

1. 2021 Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch M1 Chip

The 14-inch 2021 MacBook Pro is the ideal laptop for live performances. It features three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports for connecting to additional audio devices. You can also connect up to two external displays, allowing enhanced feedback from multiple DJ tools and apps. Its 16GB of RAM means you can have numerous programs and items of hardware running at once, without worrying about latency issues.

The 14 Core GPU and 8 core CPU paired with Apple's Neural engine allow for lightning-fast and accurate rendering of graphics and audio files, which is essential for live performances. The integrated chipset with unified memory provides extra speed when searching for files, while the 1TB SSD gives you enough storage for a vast range of multimedia files and programs.

In addition, the SD expansion slot allows for extra storage, if necessary. The MacBook Pro boasts six powerful internal speakers with a spatial audio function. This provides extra depth and clarity for editing and set preparation on the go, without needing peripherals, making it a great choice for traveling DJs.

• Liquid Retina XDR display
• Six-speaker sound system
• Long battery life

• Brand: Apple
• Storage: 1TB SSD
• CPU: M1 Pro Chip 8-core
• Memory: 16GB RAM
• Operating System: MacOS
• Battery: 17 hours
• Ports: 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC
• Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD camera
• Display (Size, Resolution): 14.2-inch XDR, 3024x1964
• GPU: M1 Max 14-core

• 3.5mm headphone jack
• Fast-charge capable
• Multiple connectivity options

• Lacks a full size USB port

2. Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX6 4-Deck DJ Controller

The pioneer DDJ FLX 6 is a professional-quality controller for mixing audio files directly from a laptop. It unlocks the pro features on both Rekordbox and Serato without a subscription, allowing you to keep up to date with the latest features. Unlike many standalone devices, this controller will actually evolve with the software.

It features a brand-new merger FX function that makes difficult transitions a breeze, no matter what BPM or key. The jog cutter button activates one-handed scratching, giving you a free hand to utilize other functions and get creative, while the full-sized, industry-standard jog wheels give precise adjustments.

Additional features include access to Serato’s Pitch ‘n Time plug-in and eight performance pads for finger drumming and tone play, allowing you to sample tunes, make your own remixes, and record your edits when using Serato Flip. The DDJ FLX 6 is powered via USB, so there is no need to worry about extra plug sockets. The four channel mixer and microphone input make it perfect for integrating vocals and for those with artistic flair to perform.

• Built-in audio interface
• Full-size jog wheels
• Pro sound effects

• Brand: Pioneer
• Connectivity: USB B port
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 13.61 x 26.61 x 2.7 inches
• Programmable Buttons: 16x FX pads

• Club-standard layout
• Compatible with Reckordbox and Sorato
• 16 backlit performance pads

• Doesn't have an auxiliary input

3. Hercules Starlight Compact DJ Control

The Hercules starlight is a great value option for aspiring DJs and house parties, thanks to its compact size and portability. It includes a crossfader, touch-sensitive jog wheels, and independent volume controls, allowing you to perform basic mixing techniques, while the pitch adjust, FX pads, and bass filters provide extra control for creating a perfect mix.

It also unlocks many features of Serato DJ Lite which is available for free download. There are four multifunctional touchpads per deck for controlling FX, hot cues, loops, and sampling, making it perfect for professionals who want something compact for preparing performances while traveling or on the way to a gig.

The onboard sound card includes both master and headphone outputs, allowing you to plug into a sound system and cue tracks easily. It’s powered via USB and has indicator lights that work in time with the music, which is a handy aid for amateur DJs who want to perfect their beatmatching skills.

• Compact and portable
• Programmable lights
• Pressure-sensitive jog wheels

• Brand: Hercules
• Connectivity: Micro-USB
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 13.4 x 3.9 x 1.93 inches
• Programmable Buttons: 8 x touchpads

• Includes Serato DJ Lite
• Plays tracks from smartphones
• 4x FX pads per deck

• No microphone input

4. Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K Turntable

For those who still prefer to DJ using vinyl, the Pioneer PLX-500-K turntable has a direct-drive motor that gives you the accuracy you need when using records. It is also compatible with Rekordbox, allowing you to access your digital music collection and take advantage of the professional performance features of this software.

The included 45 EP adapter along with 33⅓, 45, 78 rpm speed adjustments mean you can play any record, no matter how old. The PLX-500K also comes with an integrated preamplifier, so you can use a line input to connect additional audio devices. Its heavy-duty construction provides excellent vibration damping, while the USB output allows you to convert your precious vinyl collection to super high-quality digital files.

The weight adjustment on the tonearm can be finely tuned, allowing you to find the right balance between preserving records and stability, no matter what environment, making it perfect for both home and club use. Also supplied are a solid dust cover and slipmat, along with an excellent quality pioneer stylus and cartridge, so you can begin your DJ journey right away.

• USB output to convert vinyl to digital
• Preamplifier
• Direct-drive motor

• Brand: Pioneer
• Connectivity: USB B port
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 18.3 x 22.2 x 11 inches

• Adjustable tone arm
• Compatible with PC or Mac
• Includes a stylus

• A little heavy for portable setups

5. Sennheiser Headphone HD 25

The ability to accurately hear cued tracks in loud environments is a prime concern for most DJs, which is why the Sennheiser HD25 headphones have been industry leaders for many years. They feature a split-style headband that gives a secure fit and comfort.

The cup position is easily adjustable and reversible, allowing for one-ear cueing. This, paired with the single-sided cable, makes them ideally suited to club environments. The cable is made from steel, making it extremely robust, and the component parts can be replaced, allowing you to customize, upgrade and repair the HD25 headphones easily.

A low impedance of 70 ohms gives higher volume levels for accurate playback in loud environments or when used with less powerful devices. The aluminum voice coils provide high sensitivity and the closed cup design, with thick padding, adds comfort and reduces unwanted background noise. They are also lightweight and compact in design, making them a great choice for those who want quality sound on the move.

• Reversible cups
• Well padded and comfortable
• Single sided cable

• Brand: Sennheiser
• Connectivity: 3.5mm Jack
• Color: Black
• Weight: 5.9 ounces

• Replaceable components
• Accurate sound reproduction
• Durable construction

• Cable can be too short for some

6. KRK Classic 8 Powered Two-Way Studio Monitor

The KRK Classic 8’s are powerful, 100-watt active studio monitors. They are self-powered, so there is no need for an external amplifier. The custom internal bi-amplifiers are perfectly matched to the drivers, giving a high-quality, professional sound ideal for home DJs and music production alike.

The high-frequency transducer, one-inch textile soft dome tweeter, and 35Hz to 35kHz frequency all combine to give great range and sound reproduction. The front-firing port placement allows flexibility in speaker locations with reduced reflected sound. Dedicated low and high-frequency level adjustment controls with a plus two percent bass boost allow you to adjust the speakers for different environments, while their compact size and heavy-duty construction make them hard-wearing and a good choice for mobile setups.

They come in characteristic black with yellow glass fiber woofers, which look at home in any professional studio setup. With a choice of balanced XLR or quarter-inch jack inputs, the KRK classic 8 speakers are designed for sophisticated listeners and have sufficient power for mid-sized parties.

• Built-in amplifier
• Auto-limiter to prevent damage
• Frequency adjustment

• Brand: KRK
• Connectivity: XLR/ TRS/ RCA
• Size: 12.4 x 10.83 x 15.59 inches
• Power: 100W
• Driver Size: 8-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter
• Cable Length: N/A

• Enhanced bass response
• Multiple input options
• Durable

• Doesn't include cables

7. U King Stage Lights With Moving Heads

With lightweight aluminum construction, this set of U King Stage Lights provides great flexibility. They can be used as freestanding units or can be frame mounted with the included brackets for use in a range of different conditions. The internal fan keeps them cool in warm environments, ensuring they remain fully functional even when pushed to their limit, making them a great choice for portable DJ setups.

Featuring five auto lighting options and DMX capabilities, the U King stage lights offer extra control when needed. Not only can you program your own stunning light show thanks to the wide scanning angle, dual-axis, and adjustable speed controls, but they also have eight colors and eight image gobos, providing a diverse range of options to entertain your audience.

These high-powered yet compact lights work in master or slave mode, making them compatible with other devices, In addition, several units can be linked together to make a modular light rig.

• Sound activated
• 5 effect modes
• Controlled through DMX

• Brand: U King
• Connectivity: DMX port
• Color: Black
• Material: Aluminum, ABS plastic
• Weight: 10.8 pounds
• Mount: Frame mounted
• Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 15 inches

• Compact and portable
• Include mounting brackets
• High-performance cooling fan

• Cannot be operated by remote control

8. Pioneer DJ DJM-S7 2-channel Mixer

Designed for use with turntables, the Pioneer DJM-S7 is a professional two-channel mixer that integrates your vinyl collection with Serato DJ and Rekordbox. DVS (Digital Vinyl System) software modes are automatically enabled, allowing you to combine both analog and digital tracks via a single control unit.

The mixer is very user-friendly and intuitive. It features 16 built-in performance pads and a combo pad setting that allows four simultaneous pad modes, while the crossfader curve, mic controls, and channel curve adjustments are all conveniently located on the front panel. There is a talk over function for microphones, and the lock-on and on-off toggles give flexibility with FX, freeing your hands for other operations.

The DJM-S7 has two USB A ports for peripherals, and two USB B ports for connecting laptops, allowing additional users to connect to the mixer. Balanced master and booth outputs, a quarter-inch jack, auxiliary inputs, and Bluetooth pairing provide all the connectivity needed for a professional and seamless performance.

• Mixes both vinyl and digital audio
• Twin USB ports for peripherals
• Bluetooth-enabled

• Brand: Pioneer
• Connectivity: USB A, Bluetooth
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 21.38 x 15.5 x 8.25 inches
• Programmable Buttons: 16x FX pads

• Compatible with Serato DJ
• 16 backlit performance pads
• Upgraded Magvel fader

• Too complex for beginner DJs

9. Pioneer DJ DDJ-XP2 Control Surface

For DJs that want to bring something extra to their set, the DDJ SP2 has 32 high-quality, non-slip rubber performance pads for swiftly triggering clips, samples, chords, or melodies. It boasts eight different pad modes, 16 pads per deck, and controls for up to four decks, making it perfect for artists and producers, and a great choice for live shows.

It is compatible with Serato DJ and Rekordbox, unlocking performance features without the need for a subscription. These features are enhanced with every update of the software, so you will always have the latest functionality. In addition, the XDJ SP2 can be used as a midi device with other multimedia software, expanding the scope of your creativity.

Hot Cue, sampler, and beat jumper modes allow you to navigate through tracks during live playback, which is perfect for making your performances unique. The pad FX mode provides texture to your mixes and makes transitions smooth, while the Pitch Play and Keyboard modes allow you to create your own groove.

• Integrates with professional DJ software
• Backlit controls
• Robust construction

• Brand: Pioneer
• Connectivity: USB
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 2 inches
• Programmable Buttons: 32 performance pads

• Intuitive layout
• MIDI compatible
• Looping controls

• Touchstrip controls lack accuracy

FAQ

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Controller and a Mixer?

A controller is a piece of hardware that is designed to interact with specialized DJ software, such as Serato, or Rekordbox. This software is used to play digital forms of music like MP3 or m4a and can change the tone, key, and beats per minute (BPM) of each track.

Controllers vary in functionality and may include built-in turntables for manually mixing two songs together, while the most complex models will invariably include features to add effects or otherwise modulate the track.

A mixer, in its most generic form, requires audio input from an external source such as a turntable or CD deck. Modern mixers, however, are something of a hybrid and can accept both digital and analog inputs, allowing skilled DJs to mix different tracks from a variety of sources.

Q: Can I DJ Tracks Directly From the Internet?

It is possible nowadays to DJ without having to download every track. Several DJ software services, including Serato DJ Pro, now have the ability to play tracks directly from a music streaming site, such as Beatport and SoundCloud. You will, however, need to ensure you have a reliable internet connection, as you could easily find yourself without music mid-set should the Wi-Fi stop working.

In addition, if you are playing in commercial venues there could be issues with copyright or licensing regulations. For peace of mind, the best option is to download your music in advance through a reputable source.

Q: Is It Possible to DJ Digital Tracks Without Using a Laptop?

Yes, it is. There are several high-quality all-in-one controllers available that come preloaded with the necessary software and have built-in screens for selecting tracks and organizing your music collection.

However, you will still need to have these stored on a memory stick or SD card. Standalone systems tend to be less popular as they can be quite bulky and somewhat more expensive than a standard controller.

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