Overview
The Vestax VCI-300MKII has been out on the market for a little over a year now, but this full HD Video review is definitely better late than never! We decided to revisit the Vestax VCI-300MKII since the VCI-400 Digital DJ controller was recently announced as the end-all-be-all of DJ MIDI controllers. The Vestax VCI-300MKII is a 2-channel DJ controller that is made up of mostly metal components and has a nice compact size for easy storage and transport. This is one of my favorite controllers to date! Check out the full video review to see why after the jump.
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Staff Review
Review Video & Demo
Setup & First Impressions
The Vestax VCI-300MKII is a two-channel Digital DJ controller that has a compact and lightweight design which also gives DJ’s the option of playing music through an optional line input in time of need. The VCI-300 may just be the most durable controller out on the market today with its full-metal body construction and heavyweight feel.
Features
Even the high-resolution jog wheels have a ribbed metal surface and they too feel super-sturdy. Though the crossfader and linefaders have a “plastic-like” feel to them, I was able to pull off all my scratches and juggles without any issues. They are all user replaceable and upgradeable (to the Innobender fader or Vestax Pro faders) if the need ever arises. The size is also nice and compact for easy transport.
On the downside, the Vestax VCI-300MKII is really a USB DJ controller and not a true MIDI controller, meaning that DJ’s won’t be able to map each and every function on the unit to the DJ software of your choice. You are pretty much stuck with the software and settings that you get out of the box. I was also surprised to see that the VCI-300MKII does not come with the additional power cable (sold separately) because it actually gives the headphones an additional amp and it also allows the unit to be used in Line-Thru mode without the need of using the power from the computer. My final gripe with the unit is the lack of on-board effects. Most DJ controllers today have effects and the only way to get them with the VCI-300MKII is to purchase the Vestax FX-1 unit to go with it.
Conclusion / Recommended For
At the end of the day, the Vestax VCI-300MKII is a barebones 2-channel DJ system that does everything very well. The unit is built to last and everything is very easy to use and understand. I have reviewed many DJ controllers to date and this is one of my favorites even though it’s missing some features found on other popular controllers. The feel of the unit and controls is just right. We recommend the VCI-300MKII to beginner DJ’s who don’t want a bunch of confusing features, or for professional DJ’s who want an additional travel setup. The price may be a bit steep at $700 but this really feels like it’s worth every penny.
Pros
- Very Strong Completely Metal Design
- Compact for easy transport
- Nice-Sturdy Metal jog wheels with High resolution and vinyl feel
- Alpha Style Crossfader with low cut-in Distance and External Curve adjustment
- User-replaceable/upgradeable Crossfader & Linefaders
Cons
- Does not come with additional Power Cord
- Cannot edit or create MIDI mappings
- No on-board effects or Sample sections