DJing is no longer just a hobby reserved for a select few; it has become a passion and career choice for many across the globe. With the rise of electronic music and social media platforms showcasing the artistry of DJs, more people are diving into the world of mixing, beats, and live performances.
However, one common barrier for aspiring DJs is the cost of high-end DJ equipment. But, thanks to products like the DJControl Inpulse 200, this entry barrier is being lowered significantly. If you’re a beginner or even an intermediate DJ looking for a solid controller without breaking the bank, the Inpulse 200 could very well be your perfect match.
In this review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the DJControl Inpulse 200. From its features to pricing and overall value, let’s dive into why this controller stands out in a crowded market.
What is the DJControl Inpulse 200?
The DJControl Inpulse 200 is a mid-range DJ controller designed by Hercules, aimed at helping aspiring DJs take their first steps into the world of mixing and performance. It’s part of the DJControl series, which has long been known for producing high-quality yet affordable equipment. The Inpulse 200 is a compact and versatile device, offering a set of features that are normally found in more expensive models but at a fraction of the price.
The controller is packed with essential tools for beginners, including Beatmatch Guides that assist with learning how to sync tracks manually, auto-mixing features, and a performance mode that ensures you can start mixing right out of the box. Whether you’re practicing in your bedroom or preparing for a live gig, the Inpulse 200 offers everything you need to get the job done.
Key Features of the DJControl Inpulse 200
When looking at a DJ controller, there are several key features you need to evaluate: build quality, performance capabilities, software compatibility, and usability. The DJControl Inpulse 200 impresses across all of these aspects, making it a standout choice for newcomers to the DJing world.
1. Compact and Portable Design
At just 2.8 kg (around 6 lbs), the Inpulse 200 is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for DJs on the move. Whether you’re performing at a small house party or taking your skills to a bigger event, you can easily pack it up and take it with you.
The layout is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time users. The two decks, jog wheels, and controls are spaced out efficiently, ensuring that you don’t feel cramped while working with the controller. The design is sleek, modern, and built to last, making it a stylish addition to your DJ toolkit.
2. Beatmatch Guide for Beginners
For newcomers, learning the art of beatmatching can be intimidating. The Inpulse 200 has an integrated Beatmatch Guide, which helps you match the tempo and phase of two tracks by providing visual cues. This is a fantastic feature for DJs who are just starting and need a little extra help synchronizing tracks manually.
While there are plenty of advanced features for seasoned DJs, this beginner-friendly guide makes it easy to transition from using auto-sync to understanding the more technical aspects of DJing.
3. Simple and Intuitive Controls
The Inpulse 200 is designed with a clear layout that doesn’t overwhelm the user. You’ll find all of the essential controls in easy-to-reach positions, allowing you to focus on your performance without having to constantly look down at the controller.
The jog wheels are large enough for comfortable scratching, while the performance pads allow you to trigger hot cues, loops, and effects with a single touch. The filter knobs provide additional creative control over the music, enabling you to make smooth transitions between tracks and experiment with your sound.
4. Software Compatibility
The DJControl Inpulse 200 is compatible with multiple DJ software platforms, making it highly versatile. Out of the box, it comes with DJUCED, a beginner-friendly DJ software that offers a wealth of features for mixing, editing, and live performance. Whether you’re a beginner or want something simple and intuitive to start with, DJUCED offers the right tools for the job.
In addition to DJUCED, it also supports Serato DJ Lite and Virtual DJ, which are two other widely-used DJ programs. The flexibility to choose your software is a big plus, especially as you advance in your DJ career and may want to use more professional platforms down the road.
5. Performance Features for Creative Mixing
The DJControl Inpulse 200 provides plenty of performance-oriented features for mixing, scratching, and creating your own unique sounds. The controller includes 8 performance pads that can trigger cues, loops, effects, and samples, as well as FX buttons for adding dynamic sound effects to your mixes.
Additionally, the mixing controls allow you to adjust the EQ (bass, mid, and treble) on each channel, offering you the flexibility to modify your sound to fit your style. Whether you want to create smooth transitions or scratch like a pro, the Inpulse 200 gives you the tools to make your performance shine.
6. Built-In Audio Interface
The Inpulse 200 has a built-in audio interface, meaning you don’t need to purchase a separate sound card. This feature allows you to output sound to external speakers or headphones for live performances and practice. The audio interface is reliable, providing clear and crisp audio, ensuring your mixes sound professional at all times.
Why is the DJControl Inpulse 200 Ideal for Beginners?
For those just starting out in the DJ world, it’s crucial to find a controller that helps you learn and develop your skills, without overwhelming you with too many advanced features. The DJControl Inpulse 200 is packed with beginner-friendly features while still offering advanced capabilities as you improve.
- Affordable Pricing: At a fraction of the price of high-end DJ controllers, the Inpulse 200 provides excellent value for money. You get a highly capable controller with all the basic tools you need to start mixing and learning.
- Beginner-Friendly Software: The included DJUCED software is tailored for newcomers, with intuitive features and a guided learning experience. You can easily move from basic auto-mixing to more intricate tasks like beatmatching and scratching.
- Beatmatch Guide: As mentioned earlier, the Beatmatch Guide is a game-changer for beginners. It’s a feature you won’t find in many other controllers at this price point, making it an invaluable tool for DJs learning the ropes.
- User-Friendly Design: The layout and controls are simple to use, which ensures you can focus on learning the fundamentals without getting bogged down in complicated features.
Pricing: How Much Does the DJControl Inpulse 200 Cost?
When it comes to pricing, the DJControl Inpulse 200 is highly affordable, making it a great option for entry-level DJs who don’t want to invest too much money upfront. As of 2025:
- The DJControl Inpulse 200 retails for approximately £149.99 in the UK.
- In the United States, the price is around $179.99.
This price point places the Inpulse 200 in a competitive range for beginner DJ controllers, offering tremendous value for money without compromising on essential features.
Why Should You Buy the DJControl Inpulse 200?
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current setup, the DJControl Inpulse 200 is an excellent choice. With its beginner-friendly design, versatile software compatibility, and affordable price, it’s the perfect tool for anyone serious about learning the art of DJing. Plus, its portability and performance features ensure that it can grow with you as your skills develop.
If you’re ready to take the leap into the world of DJing or need an affordable upgrade from your current controller, the Inpulse 200 is the smart choice.