Hercules DJControl Instinct S Controller Review

First Impressions / Setting up

The Control Instinct S is a compact two-channel controller with the beginner in mind or the travelling DJ who just wants basic controls for casual to serious performances. The Instinct S is the size of a laptop and weighs less than 1 kgs. It’s also USB bus-powered which adds to its portability.

It has two RCA outputs and an 1/8″ stereo output for powered speakers. For previewing tracks, an 1/8″ jack out for headphones is located at the front. It features two pressure-detecting jogwheels that allow you to scratch, browse through the track, as well as control the pitch bend function.

In Use

Out of the box, the Control Instinct S comes with a full version of DJUCED. You need to install the driver and software first before you plug in the controller to your computer.

The controller itself is small, lightweight and may look like a toy, however, users comment that it has a solid build and is rugged enough to withstand everyday use. The jogwheels have good feedback, useful for lining up tracks, but don’t expect masterful scratching on the tiny pair. Also, the buttons and knobs are responsive with no detectable latency. The Control Instinct S still has its sound card from its previous rendering, retaining clear sound worthy of playing in a bar or small club environments.

One of the common gripes among users is the lack of a gain control. Instead, the volume stays at a fixed level which makes it difficult to match volumes when bringing in new tracks to your mix – you have to click on the software on your computer to do so. Aside from this, the controller features all you need for basic Djing.

Conclusion

The Control Instinct S is decent for its price and is aimed towards the beginner who is getting acquainted with his or her first controller. Consumer, basic, and inexpensive, many who wanted to jump into DJing found this controller a delight to use and learn from.