When you’re starting out learning to DJ, the most important thing is to have the right equipment. There are lots of beginner DJ controllers on the market these days, but which one should you choose?
In this article, I’ll compare two popular beginner controllers, the DDJ 200 and the DDJ 400, and also take a look at the Newmark Mixstream Pro.
I’ll explain the differences between them and help you decide which one is right for you. But that’s not all – we’ll also talk about learning to DJ in virtual reality with an app like TribeXR.
So whether you’re just getting started or you’re looking for an upgrade, read on for all the info you need.
Pioneer Controllers
The first beginner DJ controllers I want to talk about are the DDJ 200 and the DDJ 400. They’re both made by Pioneer, one of the most well-known manufacturers of DJ gear.
If you’ve ever been to a club or at a festival, chances are that you’ll have seen high-end gear like the CDJ 3000s on stage.
Pioneer’s entry-level gear might look very different but they are packed with similar features.
The DDJ 200 controller is one of the most common entry points for beginner DJ’s. It’s a simple two-channel controller with basic features, but it’s perfect for those just starting out. It has jog wheels, cue buttons, and a crossfader, as well as some basic effects like flanger and echo.
The DDJ 400 is an upgrade from the DDJ 200.
So if you’re just starting out as a beginner DJ, the DDJ 200 is a great entry point.
Both controllers are compatible with Rekordbox DJ, so if you’re already familiar with that software, they’ll be easy to use right out of the box.
DDJ 200 vs DDJ 400
As beginner DJ controllers, the DDJ 200 and DDJ 400 both have a lot in common. They’re made by the same manufacturer, Pioneer, they use Rekordbox DJ software and they are very affordable.
However, there are differences between them that might make you prefer one over the other if you’re just starting out as a beginner DJ.
The DDJ 400 also has some extra features which might be appealing to beginner DJs. It has a soundcard and RCA output which means you can connect it to speakers.
The DDJ 200, on the other hand, is a little more compact and portable. It doesn’t have a soundcard or RCA output, but it can be powered by USB so you don’t need an external power supply.
The DDJ 400 has physical loop buttons, whereas the DDJ 200 does not.
Overall, if you’re looking for a beginner DJ controller with more features, the DDJ 400 would be the better option. But if you’re looking for something more compact and portable, the DDJ 200 is a good choice.
Newmark Controllers
While Newmark has many beginner options, if your budget can stretch to the $500 range, Newmark’s Mixstream Pro all in one controller is a powerhouse and blows everything else out of the water, for the money.
It’s a two-channel controller with a ton of features, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced DJs.
The Mixstream Pro has two jog wheels, 4 performance pads, faders, and comes with Engine DJ software. It even has built-in speakers.
It’s also able to stream music from online music sources like Soundcloud and Beatport Link.
Learn to DJ in VR with TribeXR
While beginner DJ controllers like the DDJ 200 and 400 are great for learning how to beatmatch, you might not want to drop hundreds of dollars just to find out if DJing is right for you.
That’s where TribeXR comes in. It costs around $20 to download.
TribeXR is a virtual reality DJ app that lets you learn how to DJ in a fun and immersive way.
If you’ve never tried DJing before, TribeXR is a great way to learn the basics without having to buy any expensive gear.
It gives you access to the CDJ 3000’s that I mentioned earlier, without the $10k price tag.
It’s beginner-friendly but also has a ton of advanced features for more experienced DJs. However, to use it you do need a VR headset such as an Oculus Quest.
TribeXR’s Secret Weapon
My journey into DJing started with TribeXR because I didn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars just to find out if I’d enjoy it or not.
But with TribeXR I didn’t just get a virtual reality app (in fairness it’s a full DJ simulator). I also got access to step-by-step video training, daily workshops, and a supportive community full of people who are passionate about music.
This is TribeXR’s secret weapon.
They take a ‘no DJ left behind’ approach to workshops. It’s a community that wants you to succeed as a DJ and will do its best to help you get started.
If you already have a VR headset, TribeXR is a no-brainer and my number one choice for beginner DJs who aren’t sure if they want to “get serious” about things, before investing hundreds of dollars on physical gear.
Conclusion
So, whether you’re just starting out as a beginner DJ or you want to try virtual reality DJing, there are options for you. The DDJ 200 and 400 controllers are great entry points if you’re already familiar with Rekordbox DJ, and the Mixstream Pro is perfect for more experienced DJs. And TribeXR is a fun and beginner-friendly way to learn DJing in virtual reality.