Hercules DJ Console 4-MX

The Hercules 4MX is a good all-around four-deck mixing controller that has most of the features found on expensive units for a fraction of the cost. For starters, the 4-MX has a completely solid metal construction. It is built to travel and built to last. The 4-MX has a compact size and it’s the only controller out there that comes with a bag that allows users to take it on the go. The Crossfader has a short cut-in distance which makes it easy to pull off crab scratches and other quick scratching techniques.

Everything on the Hercules 4-MX is not perfect as I was able to find a few shortcomings that should be pointed out. The first gripe I had with the unit was that the jog wheels could pull off most scratches, but not the quick scribble or fast type scratches that some users may want to attempt. It seemed as if the resolution was very good, but just not as tight as some other controllers and decks out there. Another item to point out is that the Hercules 4-MX cannot use its internal soundcard to play timecode decks directly from the RCA inputs (the Traktor Kontrol S4 is still the only controller with this feature). Also, since the controller is compact, the user is only able to control the EQ’s and Volume levels of two of the four decks that are currently selected. Other 4-deck controllers on the market will always have the EQ and Volume controls available at all times. The final gripe that I have with the Hercules 4-MX is that it cannot be used as a standalone mixer. There must always be a computer connected to the 4-MX as there is no other power source other than the USB cable.

The Hercules 4-MX is recommended for beginner or bedroom DJ’s who mostly want to mix and beatmatch with a little bit of scratching thrown in. The 4-MX would also be perfect for any skill-level DJ’s who want a compact and strong (all-metal) DJ solution to take the mix with you on-the-go. It has most of the features found on other higher priced controllers for a lot less money. Buyers will ultimately have to upgrade to Virtual DJ PRO to unlock all of the functions of the hardware, but it is well worth it.

Pro’s:
-Completely Solid Metal Construction
-Surprisingly Nice Crossfader with Curve Adjustment (Available in the Virtual DJ Pro Software)
-Nice Compact Size
-Comes packaged with its own travel bag
-Great Overall Value (Good Features with an even better price)

Con’s:
-Mapping to jog wheels not suited for serious/rigorous scratching
-Cannot use internal soundcard for external timecode decks (must have separate soundcard device)
-Lack of simultaneous 4-channel Line and EQ controls (Must switch to other 2 decks)
-Cannot work as a standalone mixing console