Seeking first equipment

I cannot suggest the wide range of controllers, but I can share my experience of using few of them. but I think the main task is to choose a software (there is Recordbox DJ, by the way):

-My first was Traktor Z1 – works great with Traktor Pro 2 and Traktor DJ on iOS. On that time, fully satisfied my need – i used to travel a lot and a compact setup was needed. But the sound quality is mediocre and Z1 works perfectly only with NI software.

-Next one was Pioneer WEGO3 – I would suggest WEGO4 as a entry level contoller, but only for a complete beginners. Sound quality was good, a full support of djay 2 iOS app also a benefit, but, since I was using Traktor Pro 2 at that time, it was not perfect combination for me.

-After there was a combination of Z1 and X1, using Z1 as an audio interface. I think, its a really nice combination to play electronic music – Z1+X1+Traktor Pro 2 were totally fine for me, except the sound quality of Z1 and the fact that there was 2 USB ports taken on my laptop. After some time I’ve started to play at weddings and I understand that NI devices without jog wheels not really suitable for me playing that kind of events.

-Now I have Numark NVII. It works with Serato DJ, changing software for me was not easy and I found Traktor interface better than Serato.
Advantages of NVII:
1) It has screens – you don’t have to staring at your laptop
2) 4 decks
3) touch controls
4) XLR outputs
5) Price is ok for a 4 deck controller with full Serato DJ.

Disadvantages:
1) Works only with Serato DJ – for me its ok, but for someone might be a disadvantage.
2) Library navigation using screens and controller not perfect for me
3) There is 4 decks, but i don’t feel comfortable to use all of them on that controller
4) Don’t like how the fader works…

Well, like many entry-level controllers, the SB2 has only RCA master outputs. Fine for close-by monitor speakers less than a few feet away. You’d need an RCA-RCA cable, preferably one you can split down the middle so you end up with two singles to run to left and right monitor.

Hooking it up to a (club) mixer is easy, shortish RCA-RCA cable and done.

Going to balanced (powered) speakers out on the floor will require something in between the RCA output and the XLR input. Either a small PA mixer (like the Yamaha MG and AG range) or a specific unbalanced RCA to balanced XLR box will do the trick. The small mixer will be more versatile, for example give you better support for a mic than the SB2. Or let’s you hook up an iPhone or something as backup device. And they are not much more expensive than the converters.

As for budget: don’t go wild with “Monster” cables, gold-plated stuff and such. Also don’t use the RCA cables like the ones that come with a home stereo. Look at online DJ shops for some sturdy cables. They should be affordable and give you long life.

Hope that helps some.

Have you looked on eBay for second hand pioneer gear? Can get a cdj1000 mk3 for around 200

MINUS 1 on the Vestax!

The company is gone. What support is out there (either help or drivers/software/mappings) is done by the odd ex-distributor and user groups. With each new OS and/or DJ software upgrade, the chances of it continuing to function properly (provided you get it working correctly in the first place) will diminish rapidly.

They were a very interesting brand when alive, but since they have moved to the relic corner, imho.

Buying a used Vestax today is totally at your own risk.

You can scout the forums here, there is plenty written on the process of going for an entry-level controller. This is more than just picking hardware by the way.