The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is a fantastic choice for beginner DJs who want an affordable and portable way to practice and learn the basics of DJing. Here’s an honest breakdown of its features and limitations, focusing on its value as a practice tool:
Pros:
- Compact and Portable Design:
- The DJ2GO2 Touch is small and lightweight, making it perfect for home practice or for carrying around to refine your skills on the go.
- Its compact size ensures it doesn’t take up much space, which is ideal for beginners who don’t have a dedicated DJ setup.
- Affordable Price:
- For its price, it offers great value, especially for those just starting out who want to experiment with DJing before investing in more expensive equipment.
- Serato DJ Compatibility:
- It comes with Serato DJ Lite, an easy-to-learn software that helps beginners get familiar with DJing fundamentals. You can upgrade to Serato DJ Pro later as you grow.
- Touch-Capacitive Jog Wheels:
- The touch-sensitive jog wheels allow for basic scratching and precise control, giving beginners a chance to explore techniques like beatmatching and track manipulation.
- Built-In Audio Interface:
- The integrated audio interface lets you plug in headphones and speakers directly, making it convenient for personal practice without needing additional gear.
- Simple Layout:
- The straightforward design includes essential controls like jog wheels, a crossfader, play/pause buttons, and pitch sliders. This simplicity makes it easy for beginners to focus on learning the core skills of DJing.
Cons:
- Limited Features:
- The controller offers only basic functionality, with no EQ knobs, performance pads, or effects controls. While this simplicity is great for learning, it may feel restrictive as you progress.
- Small Jog Wheels:
- The jog wheels, while functional, are very small, which can make precise control challenging, especially for scratching or detailed beatmatching.
- Short Pitch Sliders:
- The pitch sliders are quite short, which makes fine BPM adjustments harder for beginners learning manual beatmatching.
- Basic Build Quality:
- The plastic construction feels lightweight and not particularly durable. It’s fine for home use but may not withstand heavy handling or travel over time.
- Not Suitable for Gigs:
- While it’s great for practice, the DJ2GO2 Touch lacks the features and build quality needed for live performances or professional gigs. It’s best used as a learning tool rather than a performance controller.
Who Is It Best For?
- Beginner DJs: It’s an excellent starting point for those who want to learn the basics of DJing at home or in a personal setting.
- Casual Hobbyists: If you’re exploring DJing as a hobby, this controller is a convenient and cost-effective way to practice.
- Travel-Friendly Practice: Its portability makes it a great option for practicing while traveling or in small spaces.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Intermediate or Advanced DJs: If you’re beyond the basics, you’ll likely find this controller too limiting for creative mixing or advanced techniques.
- Scratch DJs: The small jog wheels aren’t ideal for serious scratching or intricate control.
- DJs Looking for Gig Equipment: This controller isn’t designed for live performances or professional use.
Final Verdict:
The Numark DJ2GO2 Touch is best suited as a practice tool for beginner DJs. Its compact size, simplicity, and affordability make it ideal for learning the fundamentals of DJing in a personal setting. While it’s not built for gigs or advanced mixing, it’s a great way to get started and build confidence before upgrading to more feature-rich equipment.