Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series DJ Controller Review
In the world of DJing, the quality of your equipment is paramount to delivering exceptional performances, whether you’re mixing in a club, at a party, or even at home. One such piece of gear that has made a name for itself is the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series DJ controller. If you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of DJing, or a seasoned pro wanting a versatile, budget-friendly controller that packs in plenty of features, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is an option you should consider.
In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into this controller’s features, build quality, performance, and overall value for money. By the end, you’ll know exactly why the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is quickly becoming a favorite among DJs everywhere.
What is the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series DJ Controller?
The Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is a compact, entry-to-mid-level DJ controller that offers a wide range of features typically found in more expensive models. Ideal for both beginner and intermediate DJs, it’s built for versatility, ease of use, and portability. Whether you’re performing live or practicing in the studio, this controller delivers a fantastic user experience.
Key Features
- Air Control Technology: One of the standout features of the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is the innovative Air Control system. This allows you to manipulate sound parameters like volume and effects without touching the controller. By simply placing your hand above the sensor, you can control a wide variety of functions. It’s a futuristic feature that makes the DJ experience feel interactive and engaging.
- Performance Pads and Jog Wheels: The controller comes with eight RGB performance pads that are perfect for triggering loops, samples, and effects. The jog wheels are responsive, allowing for precise track manipulation and scratch control, which is essential for any DJ.
- Mixer Section: The mixer section on the DJControl Air+ S Series features standard EQ controls with knobs for bass, mid, and treble, as well as filter knobs to tweak the sound to your liking. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to access all the controls you need while performing.
- Dual Deck Control: With dual deck control, you can easily mix two tracks simultaneously, enabling seamless transitions and beat matching.
- Built-in Sound Card: The Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series comes with a built-in sound card, allowing you to hook up speakers or headphones without requiring an additional interface. This makes it incredibly portable and easy to set up for any gig.
- Software Compatibility: The controller comes bundled with DJUCED 40° software, which is great for beginners. It also supports other popular DJ software like Serato and Traktor, providing flexibility to users who already have preferred platforms.
- Compact and Portable Design: At only 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs), the controller is lightweight and highly portable. Whether you’re traveling for gigs or just want to set up a small home studio, the DJControl Air+ S Series is easy to carry and doesn’t take up too much space.
Build Quality and Design
When it comes to build quality, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series doesn’t disappoint. The controller is made from durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The design is sleek and modern, with a professional look that gives it a premium feel despite its affordable price point. The tactile buttons, responsive knobs, and sturdy faders all work seamlessly together to offer a satisfying performance.
Moreover, the controller has been designed with ergonomics in mind. The layout allows for easy access to all of its functions, with nothing feeling cramped or difficult to reach. This is particularly important for live performances, where speed and precision are essential.
Performance and Ease of Use
One of the key reasons DJs opt for the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is its incredible ease of use. Even if you’re new to DJing, this controller offers a user-friendly interface that helps you get up and running right away. The controls are simple and intuitive, allowing you to focus more on your mixes and less on figuring out complicated settings.
For more experienced DJs, the controller offers a range of performance features, including cueing, loops, and effects controls. You can also adjust the sensitivity of the jog wheels and the performance pads, making it easier to match your personal style.
Additionally, the Air Control feature adds an exciting dimension to your performance. The ability to control sound and effects with hand gestures in mid-air is both cool and practical. It gives you an edge when performing live, offering a new way to interact with your audience and elevate your DJing experience.
Software and Integration
As mentioned earlier, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series comes bundled with DJUCED 40° software, which is a great choice for beginner DJs. The software is designed to be intuitive, with a simple interface that makes it easy to mix tracks, add effects, and make live adjustments. It also includes a variety of tools to help you create seamless mixes, such as automatic beatmatching and synchronization.
For more advanced users, the controller also supports other popular DJ software like Serato DJ Lite and Traktor Pro, providing compatibility with industry-standard platforms. This level of flexibility is a great advantage, as it ensures that the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series can grow with you as your skills improve.
Pricing and Value for Money
When it comes to pricing, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is one of the most affordable controllers on the market for the features it offers. Let’s break down the price in both pounds and dollars to give you a better understanding:
- Price in the UK: Around £159.99
- Price in the US: Around $179.99
At this price point, you’re getting an incredible value for money, especially considering the Air Control technology, dual deck control, built-in sound card, and software compatibility. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade to a more feature-rich controller without breaking the bank, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series offers excellent performance at a reasonable price.
Why Choose the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series?
- Innovative Air Control Technology: This is a unique and futuristic feature that no other controller in this price range offers. The ability to control sound and effects with hand gestures makes this controller stand out from the competition.
- Great for Beginners and Pros: Whether you’re just starting out or have been DJing for years, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series provides the right balance of ease of use and advanced features. It’s versatile enough to accommodate DJs of all levels.
- Affordable: Compared to other controllers with similar features, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series is priced very competitively, making it an excellent option for anyone on a budget.
- Portable and Durable: Its lightweight, compact design ensures it’s easy to transport, while its durable build quality ensures it can withstand the rigors of frequent gigs and practice sessions.
- Software Compatibility: The inclusion of DJUCED 40° software is a great bonus for beginners, while compatibility with Serato and Traktor allows experienced DJs to use their preferred software.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series DJ controller is a feature-packed, affordable, and highly functional tool that offers something for every DJ. Whether you’re a novice looking for an easy-to-use controller or an experienced DJ in search of a reliable, portable device with innovative features, the DJControl Air+ S Series will not disappoint.
Its combination of Air Control technology, intuitive layout, responsive performance pads, and overall ease of use make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to step up their DJing game. The built-in sound card and software compatibility ensure that you have everything you need to start mixing right out of the box, without needing to invest in extra equipment.
Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re ready to elevate your DJing experience with the Hercules DJControl Air+ S Series, now is the perfect time to buy.