DJ Controllers help ease the work of disc jockeys by allowing a much simpler means of DJing without hauling around heavy equipment and gear. As the technology for Scratching continues to get better and better, the debate on what the best DJ controller for scratching continues to heat up. 

Scratching helps add awesome effects and sounds while you are mixing at home or when playing at private events and night clubs. On this page, we will break down everything you need to know about DJ controllers and their scratching capabilities so that you can find the best DJ controller for scratching to meet your personal needs. 

Basic Background Information

In a nutshell, DJ controllers are capable of producing high-quality scratching sounds. At least, if you know what you are doing. The scratching sound that you hear at night clubs and in DJ mixes is created by either using a digital or standalone turntable.

This sound can be made on a DJ controller, standalone CDJ, vinyl turntable, or even with DJ software. The skill of the person scratching is much more important than the type of equipment you use. Yet, some equipment tends to work better for some people than it does for others. 

There are many different techniques for producing a scratching sound. Some of the most common scratching techniques are the baby scratch, tear scratch, chirp scratch, and various other techniques. One of the most basic techniques for scratching is used to edit explicit lyrics out of a track by moving the platter forward on beat.

Scratching with DJ Controller vs. Vinyl

As said earlier, scratching can be done both on vinyl materials and non-vinyl (such as DJ controllers). Scratching on a DJ controller can sound just as great as on vinyl. Be aware, though, that many Luddite vinyl purists in the industry will vehemently tell you otherwise. 

As much as vinyl turntables can produce warm and awesome scratches, DJ controllers also produce great sounds. As you will learn when you get good at scratching, the type of equipment that you use doesn't matter. It is your skill on the gear that matters most. 

The fact that you will not be respected when you use a DJ controller for scratching is a false assertion. The respect you get from DJing does not depend on the type of gear you use but the sound you produce. Both classic vinyl equipment and modern DJ controllers can be used to create great scratching sounds. 

Scratching with Standalone Vinyl or CDJs: Pros & Cons

Standalone gear such as vinyl and CDJs have long been accepted by the scratching community. However, one major concern that you should be aware of is that both CDs and vinyl will wear with continued use. If you use vinyl turntables, you will also need to purchase new needle cartridges.

How Fast Latency Will Affect Fast Scratching

Some people believe that they cannot use a DJ controller for scratching since they believe latency will make fast scratching impossible. In reality, a MIDI DJ controller will work wonderfully for fast scratching with software that was designed for the controller. 

It is also a good idea to make sure that you have a nice audio interface if your controller doesn't come with an included sound card. Certain software works well with certain controllers. With a nice audio interface, or a good controller/software combination, latency will usually not affect your ability to scratch fast. 

Motorized Platters Vs Stationery Platters 

The platter (or jogwheel) is the platform where you create the scratching sound. There are two major types of platters. Motorized platters have a built-in motor that makes the platter move to mimic the look and feel of a classic vinyl turntable. This is the type of platter that is recommended for anybody who is switching from vinyl to DJ controllers. 

Stationary platters are usually a lot more affordable than controllers with motorized platters. This is because there is no included motor to spin the platter like a classic vinyl turntable. If you are new to scratching and are looking for the best cheap DJ controller for scratching, you should get a model with a stationary platter.

Traditionally, the Best Scratchers Have Used Vinyl

There is no doubt that the DJ controllers are capable of high-quality scratching if they are used by somebody who knows how to scratch. However, the reality is that many of the best scratchers in history were known for using vinyl turntables. Even if this means they use timecode technology. 

It seems that times are changing, though. For many reasons, both old school and new DJs are starting to notice the impressive scratching capabilities of DJ controllers. You can still be respected as a scratching DJ if you use MIDI controllers. 

Finding the Best DJ Controller For Scratching: Buyer's Guide

There are some important variables to keep in mind if you wish to find the best DJ controller for scratching. For starters, your personal needs are the most important thing to keep in mind. Before we break down our top scratching controllers, let's explore each of these variables. 

Software Designed for the Controller

To find the best DJ controller for scratching make sure to check which software the controller was designed for. This way, you can minimize the possibility of any technical difficulties. As we mentioned, using the software intended for the controller usually allows you to have the best scratching capabilities. It will also make it a lot easier than trying to find MIDI maps and installing things on your own.

Type of Platter on the Controller

If you are a DJ who is accustomed to vinyl, it is recommended that you start by using a DJ controller with a motorized platter. Although it will cost a little bit more than one with a stationary platform, you will feel at home from the get-go. 

If you are new to scratching or need to find an affordable scratching controller than you should consider one with a stationary platter. As a beginner, you won't be affected by the difference between motorized and stationary platters as much. You will probably save some money by doing so.

Number of Supported Channels

A good scratching DJ will typically use more than two channels. This is because while you are scratching you might also be planning your next transition. Files used for scratching are usually small sound bites. If you only have two channels on your controller, it will be very difficult to scratch during a transition. 

This is why those who want the best DJ controller for scratching should get a controller with four channels. You will be able to have one channel on the right and left side of your crossfader reserved for scratching. Best of all, you can always leave one channel open for transitioning to the next song. 

Ability to Easily Adjust Crossfader Curve

When we broke down how to use a DJ controller, one of the features we described is the ability to adjust the crossfader curve. As you will learn when you start to learn advanced scratching techniques, you will need to be able to move the crossfader back-and-forth rapidly. With the ability to easily adjust the crossfader curve (either on the control or the software), this won't be a problem. 

Best Controllers for Scratching: Comparison Chart

Most Affordable DJ Controllers for Scratching: Comparison Chart