4-Deck DJ Controllers - advantages?

[Lancer X]

I am very new to DJing, so please bear with my simple question:

Why might a DJ want a 4-deck controller (as opposed to 2-deck), and in what ways would I be limited if I only have 2 decks available?

[Jester]

if you want to use more than 2 tracks at once, get a 4 deck controller.

[arsman]

2 decks for 2 deck controller. 3 or 4 for 4 deck controller

[soundinmotiondj]

2 deck controllers mimic any other common "2 input" system...in terms of gross workflow...be it 2 CDs or 2 turntables. If your DJ style can be accommodated with 2 input devices, then a 2 deck controller is likely a good place to start. 2 deck controllers tend to be smaller, more portable, and less expensive than their larger cousins. The trade off is that with less space, there tend to be fewer dedicated controls (things like filter knobs, etc).

4 deck controllers allow semi-direct access and control of 4 decks. None (that I have seen) have 4 jog wheels. But they do allow access to 4 line channel faders, and more dedicated controls. These controllers tend to be larger, and more expensive than their smaller cousins.

Most of the "4 deck" techniques involve layering remix decks, or loops over a 2 deck "mix." The techniques that are being developed are well suited to "routines" and not as well suited for "live mixing." That may or may not change over time....controllerism seems to be (mostly) focused on the youtube video as the main performance space. While some controllerism techniques are well suited to live mixing...most of those focus on the control of two decks...perhaps with some additional controller for cue point jumping.

The differences in features are real. The issue is that the decision about which set of features to choose is based mostly on the style of the DJ and the intended workflow. The good news is that it only takes $$$ to change you mind later.

[Kaek]

The best 4 deck controller is ala Felix da Housecat style.

2 X1's and a 4 channel digital mixer. Just add buttons on top (midi fighter, F1 etc).

[Jester]

The best 4 deck controller is ala Felix da Housecat style.

2 X1's and a 4 channel digital mixer. Just add buttons on top (midi fighter, F1 etc).

For sure.

[Lancer X]

Most of the "4 deck" techniques involve layering remix decks, or loops over a 2 deck "mix." The techniques that are being developed are well suited to "routines" and not as well suited for "live mixing." That may or may not change over time....controllerism seems to be (mostly) focused on the youtube video as the main performance space. While some controllerism techniques are well suited to live mixing...most of those focus on the control of two decks...perhaps with some additional controller for cue point jumping.

Cool - thanks, SiMDJ - that's exactly what I wanted to know. I think a 2-deck mixer will be plenty for me for now, and should save me a few Benjamins. Appreciate your time!