Sonny John Moore, aka Skrillex, is one of the most successful DJs out there. He has revolutionized the Dubstep and EDM community and has continued to work in other genres like Post Hardcore, Electro House, and Trap. He is one of the best-known music producers when it comes to mixing, and his setup is like no other.
Of course, Skrillex has invested his time and money into finding some top-of-the-line equipment to help him get where he is today. However, you would be surprised to know that his setup isn’t as complicated as you’d think.
He is a fan of some reliable classic mixers and controllers. So, let’s get into what DJ controller does Skrillex use.
Narrowing It Down
As we all would have thought, he’s definitely changed his setup over the years. There have been various posts of him working with different equipment, so it’s hard to narrow down which ones he uses most. Plus, a majority of his songs are composed using multiple systems, not just one DJ controller.
As a general guideline, we have seen him use the Akai Professional APC40 Ableton Performance Controller, M-Audio Trigger Finger MIDI Controller, and the Native Instruments Maschine.
He then pairs this with the Native Instruments Komplete Software, Celemony Melodyne Editor Software, and the iZotope Ozone Software. All of these combined is what he has been using to craft his unique sound.
Recent Performances
Depending upon what type of music he’s playing, we often see that his favorite amongst the controllers is the Akai Professional APC40. The second favorite is the Native instruments, and he’s been seen using other products from their brand. Lastly, it’s the M-Audio as it doesn’t give as much complexity as the other two.
Akai Professional APC40
The Akai Professional is known for improving its settings and controls by providing multiple enhancements. First, the power of clips in meticulously engineered for use with both hands.
Plus, you’ll have full control over the system. Besides this, it features seamless integration and plug-and-play capabilities.
Other than that, it comes with the Ableton Live Lite, but it’s likely that Skrillex does not use this program, as it’s only a trial version. Additionally, the Puremagnetik Effect Racks gives you access to over two hundred different audio effects. These aren’t your average effects; in fact, they’re sculpted to be sophisticated and complex.
Lastly, it features a Hybrid 3.0 upgraded synthesis which is where he gets part of his unique sound. Various sound systems tend to leave this out, which is why this version comes packed with individuality. You’ll be able to use futuristic digital manipulations and craft sounds that are out of this world.
The Native Instruments Maschine
Amongst other popular DJ controllers, the Native Instrument is a favorite of many popular DJs. Some of the more famous ones besides Skrillex are Deadmau5 and Nicky Romero. It’s easy to see why professionals are attracted to this console, as it’s flashy, neatly organized, and enables you to customize your mixes fully.
The small console includes integrated software and hardware that sets it apart from other controllers, Plus, located on the sides are a sampler, mixer, FX, and arranger, which makes it an all-in-one system. However, it does lack jog wheels, but he doesn’t use these in his music often.
Besides this, it includes pure high res colors which illuminate their use anytime. The smaller detailing lights up other parts of the soundboard as well.
Next, the layout is out of this world and features an intuitive design. It makes it easier to operate and includes a four-direction push encoder.
Besides this, it also has an expressive smart grip which helps you bend sounds to be similar to instruments. On top of that, it features a USB plugin which works with most 24-bit audio interfaces, enabling you to work from anywhere.
The last core feature is the sixteen different ultra-responsive pads which enable you to put in different sounds, effects, and beats. Lightly brushing against them allows them to go, which makes playing them at a fast pace possible.
What DJ Controller Does Skrillex Use?
There are so many consoles out there, but the ones mentioned are some of the few professional grade DJ controllers that are used to create masterpieces. Each console comes with multiple unique features that help Skrillex and others revolutionize their sound and allow them to craft beats like no other artist.
Last but not least, it’s best to remember that these aren’t the only DJ controllers they are using. Most professional DJs have a full setup comprised of different mixers, software, audio, speakers, and more.
Therefore, don’t let this limit you. However, if you’re trying to fall in Skrillex steps and learn a bit about what he does with music, then you should definitely give one of the two a try.
