Hercules DJ Console Information

DJ at work.

One of the many tools the DJ uses to perform is the MIDI controller. This device allows the DJ to incorporate digital music into his act and have as much control over it as he would with the standard record, turntable and mixer. Hercules is one of the companies that produces MIDI controllers.

Types

Hercules has several different models of MIDI controllers available for the DJ. For the beginner, the DJ Console MK4 is the most popular model. For more advanced DJs, the DJ Control Steel is an option, and for DJs who need microphone inputs and other performance-related options, the DJ Console RMX is a viable solution. Hercules also has mobile DJ offerings, but these are more geared toward personal listening than using for performance.

DJ Console MK4

The DJ Console MK4 is Hercules' lower-end MIDI controller. It allows for the control of two digital decks with jog wheels to navigate the track, as well as two stereo outputs and two stereo inputs that allow for the addition of analog equipment such as CD decks and turntables. Equalizer knobs allow for the control of lows, mids and highs, and pitch controllers allow for the speeding up and slowing down of playing tracks for beat matching. Hercules has included VirtualDJ DJC Edition with the package, and it retails for $319.95 as of 2010.

DJ Control Steel

Hercules' mid-range model is the DJ Control Steel. The construction of the device is the first thing that separates it from the DJ Console MK4, as it is metal rather than plastic. The device does not include an internal sound card, meaning it only controls the mixing side of DJ-ing, and another device would be needed to route the audio out of the computer and to the speakers. The equalizer knobs add a "kill" button, which allows the DJ to remove either the lows, mids or highs of a track in the mix, and adds effects capability. The DJ Control Steel retails for $387.95 as of June 2010.

DJ Console RMX

The RMX is Hercules' top-of-the-line controller. Retailing for $539 as of June 2010, it has all the features of the DJ Control Steel and adds an internal sound card. This means speakers for output can be connected directly to the unit. Like the Steel, the device is made of metal versus plastic for added durability, and a "scratch" feature allows for simulating scratching like on a traditional turntable. Additional buttons for more effects and software control (for finding and selecting tracks) are provided.

Considerations

While the prices for each device have been provided here, most retailers sell these controllers at prices well below the suggested retail price. For example, at Guitar Center as of June 2010, the MK4 sells for $199.95, the Steel $249.95, and the RMX $349.95. Check with several pro audio shops to ensure a good deal.

References

• DJ Console MK4
• DJ Control Steel
• DJ Console RMX