While the quest to satiate the needs of gear geeks continues, the core functionality of DJing can be satisfied on units considerably smaller than some recent offerings. And this cramming of functionality into less space than previously thought possible is definitely where Hercules excels. Now I knew that their controllers were small, but nothing could prepare me for just how small their new DJ Control Instinct P8 could be. But it works.
The PR:
Boost your DJ Performing Instincts with the Hercules DJControl Instinct P8!
London, August 16, 2016 – Does the name ‘Instinct’ sound familiar? It should! The DJControl Instinct P8 is a supercharged version of the brand’s best-selling DJControl Instinct. Nothing has changed when it comes to providing DJs with the very best in performance and thanks to Hercules’ expertise and its user community’s feedback, this industry leading DJ controller has been recreated with even more features and a set of crowd pleasing, multi-coloured performance pads!
A Core DNA that is Tough and Tested
The DJControl Instinct P8 boasts the same strengths as its predecessor. Featuring an ultra-instinctive approach, combined with a compact and robust design, this all-in-one controller has built-in audio and essential mix and remix features.
Following the same philosophy, the DJControl Instinct P8 is a full-featured, simple and affordable controller. All you need is a computer (PC or Mac®) with a USB port to connect the controller, a set of speakers, headphones, some music files, and you’re all set to become the centre of the party.
See the Instinct P8 in action here: https://youtu.be/TNt8FF0Ownw
From Mix to Performance
Hercules’ latest the DJControl Instinct P8 introduces something new: remixing! Thanks to its 8 multicolored pads and the latest version of DJUCED™ 40°, your mix can become something even greater: performance! Combined with DJUCED™ 40°’s multilayer sampler, its 8 ergonomic and responsive pads enable you to produce highly creative remixes, while also delivering a precise and high quality performance. DJUCED 40°’s intelligent design keeps the rhythm and the structure of tracks intact, no matter what you’re doing. DJUCED’s partnership with Loopmasters® will provide comprehensive and scalable content, via built-in sample packs.
New Features
Like its little brother, the DJControl Instinct P8 boasts a wealth of functionalities. The basics have been retained, but thanks to Hercules’ expertise, the controller has been revamped for 2016.
Newly implemented effects controls and adjustments include dedicated sync, cue and play/pause buttons; separate modes on each deck; temporary loop mode using the pads, or permanent loop mode using the encoder; 3-band EQ; extended functions via the Shift button; detachable USB cable and more – all these features ensure a comprehensive and intuitive mixing style.
Of course, the DJControl Instinct P8 includes a built-in sound card with a dual stereo RCA output for mixing and a stereo 3.5 mm mini-jack output for previewing. With its USB MIDI/Audio compatibility, the DJControl Instinct P8 is also compatible with most available DJ software.
The Hercules DJControl Instinct P8 will be available from September 2016, at the suggested retail price of 119.99€ (taxes included).
AN EXERCISE IN RESTRAINT
It would be easy for a manufacturer to attempt to shoehorn every conceivable knob and button into a controller. But Hercules has taken a more sensible approach, and while fitting in more than was thought possible, the Instinct P8 is definitely a very useable controller in spite of its size. It’s also incredibly engaging too — I was positively drawn into playing with it and seeing what it could do, and importantly if it could do it well. Ten minutes after opening, I’d rudimentary mapped it to djay Pro, and was crudely scratching. Give me a couple of hours, and this thing will be singing for me.
Now it’s really easy to dismiss units like this as cheap plastic toys. And for two out of three of those, you’d be quite right. The Instinct P8 is cheap, and it is plastic. But it is not a toy. It has everything you need to keep a crowd rocking. Perhaps not at Ministry of Sound, but for a house party or bar, there’s enough going on to keep most people happy.
Given the size (26.5 x 18.7 x 4.8mm), it’s a cracking go-anywhere controller, that won’t take up much room in your bag either. It’s not for everyone, and wouldn’t be my tool of choice. But if you absolutely must DJ wherever you find yourself, the Instinct P8 is a pretty good bet, especially with the full version of Hercules’ DJuced Pro version bundled too. There’s even a Traktor map and a bunch of Loopmasters stuff too.
Summing up, the Hercules DJ Control Instinct P8 will be out in September for the easily affordable sum of €120.
GALLERY
