Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 Review 2025
As the world of DJing continues to evolve, the need for intuitive, versatile, and high-quality controllers has never been more significant. Enter the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2—a controller designed to enhance your performance, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DJ. With a sleek design, robust features, and affordable price point, this controller brings pro-level functionality to your fingertips.
In this review, we will dive deep into the features, performance, and value of the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2, a controller that promises to be the perfect addition to any DJ setup. Whether you’re an aspiring DJ looking for your first controller or a seasoned professional seeking a reliable, portable option, the DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 has something to offer.
Design and Build: Sleek, Functional, and Lightweight
When it comes to a DJ controller, the design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about functionality. The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 strikes the perfect balance between form and function. The controller is lightweight yet sturdy, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of live performances, while remaining portable enough to take on the go.
One of the standout features of the Inpulse 300 MK2 is its colorful, backlit pads and adjustable jog wheels. These jog wheels have a satisfying tactile feel, allowing for precise control over your tracks. The RGB pads are not just a flashy addition; they serve a practical purpose too. These pads light up to indicate active cue points and loops, making it easier to navigate your set without taking your eyes off the crowd.
The controller is also designed to be incredibly user-friendly, with clearly labeled buttons that are intuitively placed. Every control, from the pitch faders to the EQ knobs, is within easy reach, making it simple for both new and experienced DJs to jump in and start mixing right away.
Weight and Portability
Weighing just over 2 kg (4.4 lbs), the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is light enough to take on the road. Whether you’re heading to a gig or just practicing at home, it fits easily into most DJ bags. Its slim, compact design ensures that it doesn’t take up too much space, which is a definite advantage for mobile DJs or those with limited space.
Ergonomics and Layout
The layout of the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is thoughtfully designed for smooth operation. The pads are positioned to allow for fast cueing and sample triggering, while the faders and knobs are well-spaced to avoid accidental adjustments during live performances. The master volume knob is large and easy to manipulate, ensuring that you can make quick adjustments as needed.
Features and Performance: Versatility Meets Precision
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is packed with features that make it stand out in its price range. This controller isn’t just about looks; it’s about performance. Here’s a look at the most notable features:
1. Dual Jog Wheels
The jog wheels on the DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 are responsive and comfortable, offering excellent control over track scratching and cueing. They have an upgraded touch sensitivity compared to the original model, which makes them easier to use when performing intricate techniques like scratching.
2. Built-in Light Guides
One of the signature features of this controller is its built-in light guides, which are great for beginners. The light guides help users with beatmatching by lighting up in sync with the track’s tempo. This feature is ideal for those who are just starting to learn the art of DJing and need an extra visual cue to help them get comfortable.
3. Performance Pads
The 8 RGB performance pads allow DJs to trigger hot cues, loops, and samples with ease. These pads provide excellent tactile feedback, making it easy to manipulate your set on the fly. They also light up in different colors depending on their function, so you’ll always know exactly what you’re triggering.
4. Mixer and EQ Controls
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 comes equipped with a full-featured mixer section that includes three-band EQ knobs for each deck, as well as filter and gain knobs. This gives you complete control over your sound, whether you want to adjust the treble, midrange, or bass frequencies. The high-quality faders are smooth and responsive, ensuring that transitions between tracks are seamless.
5. USB Connectivity
For easy connectivity, the DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 uses a USB cable to link to your computer. There’s no need for an external power supply, which makes it even more portable. The controller is compatible with Serato DJ Lite, and Hercules DJUCED 40, offering plenty of options for users.
6. Auto Mix Feature
Another fantastic feature for beginners is the Auto Mix function. This function can automatically mix songs for you based on the tempo and key, providing a smooth transition between tracks. This feature can be a great practice tool when you’re learning how to mix and transition between songs.
7. Dedicated DJ Software
When you purchase the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2, it comes with a free version of DJUCED 40 software. This software has an intuitive interface and plenty of features, including song analysis, mixing tools, and audio effects. The DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is also compatible with Serato DJ Lite, making it versatile enough for various setups.
Audio Quality: Crisp and Clear Sound
The sound quality of a DJ controller is critical, and the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re using headphones or an external speaker system, the audio output is clear and rich. The controller provides a balanced sound with clear highs, mids, and bass, allowing you to accurately hear and adjust your tracks. The built-in sound card ensures that your audio is processed without any lag, which is essential for smooth live performances.
Price: Affordable Yet Professional
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 offers incredible value for the price. At £139.99 (UK) and $179.99 (US), you get a controller packed with professional features, making it one of the most affordable controllers in its class. It offers a solid mix of features, build quality, and portability, which is rare at this price point.
For beginners, it provides a perfect starting point with the light guides and intuitive layout, while still offering advanced features for experienced DJs who want to upgrade their gear without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Affordable price for the quality and features
- Responsive jog wheels for precise control
- RGB performance pads for easy cueing and triggering
- Built-in light guides for beginners
- USB-powered for easy setup and portability
- Solid audio quality with no lag
- Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel
Cons:
- No standalone mixer option, meaning you need to connect it to a laptop or desktop
- Limited advanced features compared to more expensive controllers
- Plastic build could feel less premium to some users
Who Is It Best For?
The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is perfect for:
- Beginners: Its intuitive design, light guides, and beginner-friendly features make it an excellent choice for those new to DJing.
- Intermediate DJs: If you’ve been DJing for a while and need an affordable controller with all the essential features, this model will serve you well.
- Mobile DJs: With its lightweight, compact design, it’s ideal for DJs on the go.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for Every DJ
Whether you’re just getting started or looking for a reliable, budget-friendly controller, the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 ticks all the boxes. Its user-friendly design, solid performance, and intuitive features make it an outstanding choice for DJs of all levels.
With its professional features at an affordable price, the Inpulse 300 MK2 is truly a game-changer. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to upgrade your DJing experience with this fantastic controller.
Ready to take your DJ skills to the next level? Buy the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 now and unlock your full potential.