DJ controllers with or without a built-in sound card – what does that mean?
A DJ controller with a built-in sound card processes audio signals internally and allows headphone cueing, direct connection of speakers, as well as microphones or additional DJ equipment. For beginners, this means fewer extra devices, a simpler setup, and immediate readiness for use.
A DJ controller without a built-in sound card only sends control data (MIDI/HID) to the computer; audio output is handled by the laptop’s sound card or an external audio interface. This option is more affordable and makes sense if an audio interface is already available or if the setup needs to remain highly portable.
Without a sound card, headphone cueing is often limited or not possible at all, which makes precise mixing more difficult. For this reason, beginners are generally advised to choose a controller with a built-in sound card, as it significantly simplifies getting started and requires fewer technical prerequisites.
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