ION Discover DJ USB DJ Controller for Mac & PC - Professional Mixing & Scratching - Perfect for Home Studios, Clubs & Live Performances

I started djing in 2002, I learned on Gemini Turntables and a Numark Mixer. Now I'm on the Technique Mk1200 Turntables and Pioneer DJM 600. Using M-Audio Torq Connectiv as my time coded computer djing system. Just saying this so that people know that I'm no amature to being a Disk Jockey. Now in days, most clubs, lounges or bars have a dj there. Nine times out of ten they are now using time coded software. Or they are using an "LE" or "Pro" midi djing software. Now in the new digital era alot of people are intrested in knowing the basics without having to break the bank. That is where the Discover Dj comes in!Simplicity is the key to learning how to dj. No matter what equipment you learn on. But what Ion has done, is made a controller that is basic. But has even a few features that Intermidiate to Advanced Disk Jockeys can appreciate. But even with all the the good comes some flaws....(The Discover DJ/Icue3 Controller)It's made of plastic, it's ok quality. But if stepped on or not being cared forthe right way. It can break, and that would be money wasted. No matter whatyou think of the product.The Jog Wheels are a nice size and work great for what it's worth. Like to be honast, you're still not getting a real time CDJ or Vinyl feel out of these things. But with alittle improvising. They are really good for a controller of this quality.The Dynamics are bad, I hear no real true changes in Treble or Bass. To me those controls are important to have when djing. especially if you want to have smooth mixes. Also the fact their isn't channels is kinda upsetting. But most people, especially if you don't dj on a regular won't mind. But to me it is kinda important especially if you're marketing this item to dj's and even the beginners.The Cross Fader is decent, if you're a turntablist or a dj that likes to do a few stabs. This fader would take sometime getting use to. For the beginners, this is a nice cross fader to start honing your skills on.The Sync button is a big help, and I think is one of the coolest features on this controller. Or you could do it manually and use the pitch buttons. But since the pitch is controlled with buttons instead of channel style like most other controllers. Pressing the Sync button is a big help. Especially for the beginners.The Cue button, you can set up start up points in songs.The REV button, to reverse the track faster instead of using the jog wheels. But you can also start the track back if you cued it. So a handy, but no so needed featureThe Play/Pause button does just that..Play and Pause the track.The Scratch Button, joggles the scratching feature of the Jog Wheels. When off, you could use the wheels to speed up a song or slow it down while the song is going to beat match.The A and B button just loads the tracks to either channel(The Mix Vibes Cross LE Software)It's a basic midi based, dj midi controller program. Created for the Discover Dj by Mix Vibes Lab in France. This program is already premapped for the Discover DJ/ICue3. It has the basic features that most Dj's use in digital djing today. You can create loops, record, and even sync this program with your Windows or Itunes Library. It's a nice basic LE program. Works fine, just make sure your computer is up to par before running the program. That way you get the best out of it.I gave this item 3 out of five stars for being a good midi controller. But with flaws that make it not quite a 5 out of 5 midi device. Perfect for beginners, and still can be fun for the Intermidiate to Advanced Disk Jockey. Perfect for small get togethers, but not really a club, bar, or lounge quality midi controller. For $100 dollars it's a cool controller to have. Although you can find it for far less than that price here on Amazon or Ebay. Don't expect to much from this controller or you're going to build yourself up to be let down. But if you know what you're getting out of it. I would say get this and enjoy it.