Best DJ Mustard Drum Kit Alternatives for Beginners
If you’re searching for an affordable, beginner-friendly way to start DJing, a complete starter kit is a strong choice. These Hercules bundles bundle a controller, speakers, and headphones to create an all-in-one setup that’s easy to learn on. They’re ideal for aspiring DJs who want guided learning, built-in software, and practical hardware for practice. This guide highlights the best starter options and explains who each kit is best for, with clear reasons to help you pick the right one.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| Hercules DJLearning Kit MK II | Absolute beginners who want a compact, all-in-one setup with two decks and included software |
| Hercules DJ Starter Kit (Starlight) | Scratch-free learning with Serato DJ Lite and built-in audio for small home setups |
| Hercules DJLearning Kit w/ Inpulse 200 | New DJs who benefit from light guides and monitoring with two-deck operation |
| Hercules DJLearning Kit MK2 | Comprehensive learning package including tutorials and two software options |
Hercules DJLearning Kit MK II
The DJControl Inpulse 200 mk2 is a 2-channel DJ controller that pairs with DJMonitor 32 speakers and DJUCED software. This kit is best for beginners who want guided learning features and a two-deck setup for practice. It emphasizes intuitive learning through light guides and built-in hardware controls. This package is ideal for learners who prefer a single vendor experience and want a cohesive learning path. A limitation is that some users may prefer Serato or other third-party software for more advanced mixing later on.
Hercules DJ Starter Kit (Starlight)
The Starlight kit includes a 2-deck Serato DJ Lite controller with built-in audio, 15-Watt monitor speakers, and sound-isolating headphones. It’s best for beginners who want Serato compatibility without buying separate software or hardware. Choose this if you value a straightforward Serato workflow and compact gear for desktop or room-size practice. A potential limitation is that the included speakers may not fill larger rooms or outdoor spaces with substantial bass.
Hercules DJ Learning Kit w/ Inpulse 200
This two-deck kit combines the Inpulse 200 controller, DJMonitor 32 monitoring speakers, and HDP DJ45 headphones with two mixing software options. It’s best for learners who want guided practice and two software choices to compare workflows. The kit’s learning aids, like light guides, support gradual skill-building. A caveat is that some users might outgrow the included software and seek broader genre libraries or more advanced FX later on.
Hercules DJLearning Kit MK2
The All-in-One DJLearning Kit MK2 offers the DJControl Inpulse 200 MK2 controller, DJMonitor 32 speakers, HDP DJ45 headphones, and access to two mixing software options plus tutorials. It’s best for learners seeking a comprehensive, guided path with both hardware and software learning resources. The included streaming options for practice tracks provide content variety, but users should verify software compatibility with their computer system as setups evolve.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a beginner DJ kit:
- Software compatibility: Look for kits offering your preferred software (Serato DJ Lite, DJUCED, etc.).
- Learning features: Light guides, built-in tutorials, and included song libraries can accelerate early progress.
- Output power and room size: Speakers on the kit should suit your practice space; larger rooms may require more capable monitors.
- Portability and durability: If you travel or move frequently, a compact, rugged setup helps.
- Future upgradability: Consider whether you’ll want to add more decks, FX, or software later.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a DJ learning kit best for? – It’s best for beginners who want an all-in-one, guided path with hardware and software included.
- Do these kits work with Serato? – Some kits include Serato DJ Lite or compatible software; verify the exact software bundle for each kit.
- Are two-deck controllers enough for beginners? – Yes, two-deck setups cover fundamental mixing and beat matching before expanding to more decks.
- Do I need high-end speakers to start? – No; 15–32 watt monitors are typically sufficient for home practice, though larger spaces may require more power.
- Can I upgrade later? – Most kits allow upgrading software or adding new hardware, but check compatibility before purchasing.
- Is Serato better than DJUCED for beginners? – Both offer friendly learning paths; Serato is widely used in clubs, while DJUCED integrates tightly with Hercules hardware.