Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 Review: The Ultimate Beginner DJ Controller?

Farman
Sep 9
4 min read

DJ controller with dual decks, colorful pads, and various knobs and buttons. Red, black, and white color scheme. Text: Hercules, Serato.

Executive Summary - Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 Review

Aspect	Summary
Product	Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 DJ Controller
Category	DJ Equipment / Beginner Controller
Key Feature	Integrated learning tools and guided mixing with DJUCED software.
Ideal For	Absolute beginners, hobbyists, and anyone wanting to learn DJing fundamentals.
Price Segment	Budget / Entry-Level

The world of DJing can be intimidating. Between the complex equipment, expensive software, and steep learning curve, many aspiring DJs don't know where to start. The Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 is designed to smash those barriers. It’s not just a controller; it’s a complete learning system packaged with intuitive hardware and guided software. This review tests whether it’s the perfect launchpad for your DJing journey or too simplistic for serious use.

DJ controller with colorful pads labeled "HOT CUE," "SYNC," and "CUE," plus sliders and text "DJUCED" on a sleek black surface.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The unboxing experience is exciting for a newcomer. Inside the box, you'll find:

The Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 controller itself.
A USB cable to connect to your computer.
Quick-start guide.
A card with a license key for the DJUCED software.

The first impression is positive. The controller feels surprisingly solid for its price. The build quality is primarily plastic, but it doesn't feel cheap or flimsy. The knobs are firm, the faders move smoothly, and the pads have a satisfying click. Its compact size is a major plus—it fits on any desk and is easy to transport to a friend's house. The layout is clean, uncluttered, and logically organized, which immediately reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Close-up of a black DJ controller with colorful buttons, knobs, and a large jog wheel. Text reads "Hercules" and "DJUCED."

Technical Specifications Deep Dive

The Inpulse 200's specs are tailored for learning and practice.

Feature	Hercules Inpulse 200 Specification
Compatibility	PC & Mac
Software Included	Hercules DJUCED (Full Version)
Mixer Section	2 channels with 3-band EQ, gain, and filter
Decks	2 deck control with large jog wheels
Performance Pads	4 per deck (Cue, Roll, FX, Loop)
Outputs	RCA Master Out, 1/4" Headphone Out
Key Feature	Beatmatch Guide & Energy Light

DJ controller with knobs, faders, and colorful buttons. Text shows "Hercules," "DJUCED," and "serato." Black, red, blue details. Energetic mood.

Key Technical Analysis:

The Learning Features: This is the controller's superpower.
- Beatmatch Guide: LEDs above the jog wheels light up to tell you if a track is running too fast or too slow, visually guiding you on how to adjust the platter to synchronize beats. This is a genius tool for learning manual beatmatching.
- Energy Level: A multi-color LED shows the energy (BPM) of the current track, helping you choose the next song that matches the mood.
Included Software: The full version of DJUCED is included. It's a beginner-friendly DAW that integrates perfectly with the controller's learning features. It also offers a "smart" mode for instant mixing and a "pro" mode for standard two-deck mixing.
Jog Wheels: They are a great size for a beginner—large enough to be functional for scratching and nudging tracks, with a good responsive feel.
connectivity: The RCA master outputs allow you to connect to speakers, and the 1/4" headphone jack is standard for DJ headphones.

DJ controller close-up with colorful buttons and knobs, labeled "Hercules" and "DJUCED." Illuminated text includes "HOT CUE" and "BEATMATCH GUIDE."

Performance and Real-World Use Cases

We tested the Hercules Inpulse 200 to see how it performs for a novice.

1. The Absolute Beginner:This is where it shines. The guided features are incredibly effective. The Beatmatch Guide lets you learn the fundamental skill of beatmatching by ear and feel, not just by staring at a laptop screen. Within an hour, a complete novice can understand the concept of matching beats and executing a basic transition.

2. Bedroom Hobbyist:For practicing mixes, creating sets for parties, or just having fun, it's more than capable. The sound quality is clean, the controls are responsive, and it has all the essential features: EQs, filters, cue points, and loops.

3. Limitations to Note:This is not a club-ready controller. The outputs are basic, and it lacks XLR outputs or a microphone input. It's designed for practice, bedroom use, and small gatherings with a portable speaker.

Close-up of a DJ controller with colored pads, knobs, and a platter. Text "Hercules" visible. Black background; vibrant, tech-focused mood.

The Competitive Landscape

How does it compare to its main rival, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-200?

Feature	Hercules Inpulse 200	Pioneer DJ DDJ-200
Core Philosophy	Learning & Guidance	Portability & App Integration
Key Feature	Beatmatch Guide, Energy Light	Weezy, Bluetooth, Ultra-light
Software	DJUCED (Full version included)	WeDJ / rekordbox (limited)
Outputs	RCA Master, 1/4" Headphone	3.5mm only (requires adapters)
Power	Bus-powered via USB	Often requires battery pack
Build	More substantial feel	Extremely lightweight

The Inpulse 200 wins on educational value and a more traditional, self-contained setup.

Hands adjusting knobs on a Hercules DJ controller near a laptop. Labels and book text are visible. The setting is bright and focused.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros:

Unbeatable Learning Tools: The Beatmatch Guide is a revolutionary feature for beginners that accelerates the learning process.
Excellent Value: Includes full software and doesn't require a subscription.
Solid Build: Feels more durable and substantial than other controllers in its class.
All Essential Controls: Has everything a beginner needs to learn proper DJing fundamentals.
Great Software Integration: DJUCED is intuitive and perfectly matched to the hardware.

Cons:

Not for Pros: Lacks outputs and features needed for professional gigs.
No Microphone Input: You cannot connect a mic for announcements, which limits its use for hosting events.
Basic Sound Card: The audio interface is functional for learning but not for high-fidelity audio applications.

Hands operate a DJ controller on a cluttered desk with a laptop showing music software. Colorful decor and photos add a creative vibe.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Hercules Inpulse 200?

The Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 is a masterfully designed gateway into the world of DJing.

Who Should Buy This?This controller is a perfect fit for:

Absolute Beginners who want to learn the art of DJing, not just pushing buttons.
Hobbyists and Bedroom DJs looking for a fun, capable, and affordable controller.
Parents wanting to buy a serious but beginner-friendly gift for a teen interested in music.
Anyone intimidated by complex gear who needs a guided, encouraging start.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Aspiring club DJs should look at the next tier up (e.g., Pioneer DDJ-400/FLX4) for a more standard club layout.
Professionals needing a backup controller.
Those who need a microphone input for hosting duties.

The Bottom Line: Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 Review - The Hercules DJ Inpulse 200 isn't just the best beginner controller; it's the best learning controller. Its unique guided features provide a structured and effective way to develop real skills. It offers incredible value, solid build quality, and a software package that gets you started immediately. If you're serious about learning to DJ the right way, this is the most intelligent first investment you can make.

DJ controller with dual black platters, colorful buttons, and knobs on a red and black background. Text: Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200.

Disclaimer: Some product images in this review have been taken from the brand's official website and other official promotional channels for informational and review purposes. All image rights belong to their respective owners.

Image Credit : https://www.hercules.com/