1. Build Quality and Design
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500:Design: The Inpulse 500 has a sturdy design with metal backing plates, retractable feet, and a sleek, modern look. Its metal jog wheels give it a premium feel.
Build: It is well-built for its price, and the retractable feet allow for a more comfortable setup, giving it an edge in versatility.
Pioneer DDJ-400 :
Design: The DDJ-400 looks like a mini version of Pioneer’s professional DJ gear, giving it a familiar layout for aspiring club DJs. It’s plastic but feels sturdy enough for regular use.
Build: While primarily plastic, it is durable and lightweight, making it easy to transport.
Verdict: The Inpulse 500 stands out with its metal jog wheels and retractable feet, but the DDJ-400’s similarity to pro-level Pioneer gear makes it appealing for those aiming for club DJ setups.
2. Software Compatibility
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500:Software: Compatible with Serato DJ Lite/Pro and DJUCED software. The inclusion of DJUCED gives beginners extra learning tools, while Serato Pro compatibility offers professional-grade performance.
Pioneer DDJ-400:
Software: Exclusively compatible with Rekordbox DJ, which is ideal for those planning to move to Pioneer’s club-level gear, as Rekordbox is widely used in professional settings.
Verdict: The Inpulse 500 provides more flexibility with dual compatibility, supporting both Serato (a leading DJ software) and DJUCED. The DDJ-400, while limited to Rekordbox, offers an advantage for users focused on transitioning to Pioneer’s club gear.
3. Learning Features
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500:Learning Tools: Includes unique features like the “Beatmatch Guide,” which helps users visually beatmatch tracks by showing indicators on the jog wheels and crossfader. It also has an **Intelligent Music Assistant (IMA)** to help suggest the next best track to play.
Pioneer DDJ-400:
Learning Tools: While it doesn’t have specific visual aids like the Inpulse 500, the Rekordbox software includes comprehensive tutorials and helps users get familiar with the Pioneer ecosystem.
Verdict: The Inpulse 500 shines for beginners with its extra features like the Beatmatch Guide, while the DDJ-400 offers a strong software learning platform but lacks hardware-based learning aids.
4. Portability
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500:Weight: Heavier due to its metal build and added features like the retractable feet.
Portability: More solid but less portable than the DDJ-400.
Pioneer DDJ-400:
Weight: Lightweight and easy to carry.
Portability: Its light weight makes it a more portable option for DJs on the move.
Verdict: The DDJ-400 is the better option for portability, while the Inpulse 500 prioritizes build quality and features over lightweight design.
5. Inputs and Outputs
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500:Inputs: Microphone input with dedicated EQ controls, auxiliary input for external audio sources.
Outputs: Balanced outputs, RCA master output, and headphone outputs. The controller’s pro-level inputs and outputs offer flexibility for mobile DJs and live performances.
Pioneer DDJ-400:
Inputs: No microphone or auxiliary input.
Outputs: RCA output and headphone output only. It lacks balanced outputs, making it more limited for live settings.
Verdict: The Inpulse 500 provides superior input/output options with balanced outputs and dedicated microphone controls, while the DDJ-400 is more basic in this regard.
6. Price
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500: Usually priced slightly higher than the DDJ-400, but the additional features (inputs/outputs, learning tools) can justify the cost for many users.Pioneer DDJ-400: Often considered a great budget option for those entering the Rekordbox ecosystem, usually priced lower.
Verdict: The DDJ-400 offers great value for those looking for an entry-level Rekordbox controller, while the Inpulse 500 justifies its slightly higher price with additional features.
7. Target Audience
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500: Best suited for beginner and intermediate DJs who want versatility with multiple software options, hands-on learning tools, and more extensive connectivity for live performance.Pioneer DDJ-400: Geared toward beginner DJs focused on the Pioneer ecosystem and those who aim to eventually transition to club-level DJ setups with Rekordbox.
Conclusion:
Both the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 and the Pioneer DDJ-400 are excellent choices for beginner and intermediate DJs, but they cater to slightly different needs:
Go for the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 500 if you want dual software compatibility, more professional-grade connectivity options, and learning features like the Beatmatch Guide.
Choose the Pioneer DDJ-400 if you’re set on using Rekordbox and want a controller that mimics the layout of professional Pioneer gear, making it easier to transition to club DJ equipment.
Each controller offers something unique, so your choice will depend on your future goals, the software you prefer, and how much you value the extra connectivity and learning features.