A DJ effects (or FX) controller is a powerful tool that can instantly boost your DJ rig into a powerhouse of looping and sampling capabilities.
Although it definitely takes a complete beginner a bit of a learning curve to setup up and use your DJ effects controller, this can typically be done within a day or so of time.
DJ FX controllers are generally very small and affordable. Therefore, finding a cheap DJ FX controller is really easy to do.
On this page, we will start by looking at some of the overall best DJ effects controllers, then finish by showing you how to set up a DJ effects controllers and various other FAQs.
Comparison Chart
1. Novation MK3 Launchpad Mini | 2. Novation Launch Control XL | 3. NI Mikro MK3 | 4. NI MK3 Full Version | 5. Reloop NEON USB |
6. NI Maschine Studio | 7. Pioneer DDJ-SP1 | 8. Pioneer DJS-1000 | 9. NI Traktor Kontrol F1 | 10. PreSonus ATOM |
Best DJ Effects (FX) Controllers
To get started, let's go ahead and explore some of the best DJ effects (FX) controllers.
Each of the following controllers was chosen in terms of versatility, affordability, and overall capability.
1. Novation MK3 Launchpad Mini
Novation MK3 Launchpad Mini Review
This portable DJ effects controller has 64 mini pads arranged in a grid format. These mini pads are used to trigger samples, play drum sounds, create loops, and so on.
It is affordable and can be carried anywhere. As a whole, it's versatility and level of potential customization make it a wonderful choice for any DJ.
What's to like about the Novation MK3 Launchpad Mini?
The device can work seamlessly with any other device without the need for any drivers and can be connected using a USB cord.
You can mix sounds, create loops, control device volume, and much more.
You can also create music on the controller with Ableton Live Lite, and use virtual instruments and drums by Novation Bass Station.
What's not to like about the Novation MK3 Launchpad Mini?
Due to its small size, the Novation MK3 is prone to mechanical damage.
If this concerns you, you can always consider getting a hard travel case. When inside the case, it is dust-proof, shockproof, and resistant to water.
PROS
CONS
2. Novation Launch Control XL DJ Controller
Novation Launch Control XL Review
The Novation Launch Control XL provides a lot more knobs and faders than your typical DJ FX controller.
Like many other top DJ effects controllers, the Novation Launch Control XL is very affordable.
It features 16 sampler drum pads, 8 different faders, and 24 different knobs which can all be customized.
When paired with the right samples and DJ software, the Novation Launch Control XL can turn your DJ rig into a live FX and drum machine.
What's to like about the Novation Launch Control XL?
This is a wonderful DJ controller for those who use software like Ableton Live, which leaves plenty of room for FX such as reverb, delays, and so on.
The average FX controller simply cannot keep up with the capabilities provided with a top-quality DJ controller like this one.
Although this controller doesn't do much outside of effects, samples, drumming, and so on, it is a very affordable tool which DJs can instantly use to boost their skills.
What's not to like about the Novation Launch Control XL?
As affordable as this controller is, the last thing you will be concerned about is whether or not you will be able to purchase it.
The biggest concerns DJs usually face with a product like this is finding opportunities in your live sets to use it. At least while they are still learning how the controller works, and what it can do.
Many DJs are so accustomed to spending all their time with other aspects of DJing that it can be difficult to find proper times to use this product and its endless capabilities.
PROS
CONS
3. NI Mikro MK3 DJ Controller
NI Mikro MK3 Review
Although a DJ controller like this
