How a controller works
A controller doesn't hold any music itself. Your tracks live on your laptop, inside DJ software such as Rekordbox or Serato. When you move a fader or turn a jog wheel, the controller sends a message to the software, and the software changes the sound. It all happens so quickly that it feels like you're touching the music directly.
Most controllers also have a built-in sound card. This sends the main mix to your speakers and a separate signal to your headphones, so you can listen to the next track before anyone else hears it.
The parts of a controller
A typical two-channel controller is split into three sections: a deck on the left, a deck on the right and a mixer in the middle.
| Part | What it does |
|---|---|
| Jog wheels | Nudge a track forwards or backwards, find the start of a track, or scratch |
| Play and cue buttons | Start the track and set the point you want to start from |
| Pitch (tempo) faders | Speed up or slow down each track |
| Performance pads | Trigger hot cues, loops and samples |
| Channel faders | Control the volume of each deck |
| EQ knobs | Adjust the low, mid and high parts of each track |
| Crossfader | Slides the sound from one deck to the other |
| Headphone controls | Choose which deck you hear in your headphones and how loud |
What you plug into it
- Your laptop, usually with a USB cable.
- Speakers, into the master output on the back.
- Headphones, into the headphone socket, usually on the front.
Some controllers also have a microphone input and extra outputs for bigger setups.
Controller vs club equipment
In many clubs you'll find CDJs and a separate mixer instead of a controller. CDJs play music from a USB stick, so no laptop is needed. A controller puts the same main controls into one smaller, cheaper unit, which is why it's the usual choice for learning at home.
The good news is that the skills carry over. Beatmatching, phrasing and EQ work the same way on a controller as they do on club decks. Some controllers are laid out like club equipment on purpose, which makes stepping up easier.
Standalone controllers
Some newer units have a screen and can play music straight from a USB stick without a laptop. These are handy, but they're not necessary for a beginner. A standard controller and a laptop will teach you everything you need.
Learning to use one
The first time you see a controller, the number of buttons can look a bit much. In practice, you'll use a handful of them most of the time. Our Starter course walks you through every control in the first session, at home or online. For help choosing one, read our guide to the best DJ controller for beginners.