Numark NS6 (photos)

The Numark NS6 is a sturdy, professional control interface for digital DJs, and offers four channels of audio input and output, matched with Serato's excellent Itch software.

The NS6 DJ controller and mixer from Numark is meant to take the sting out of the digital transition by offering a capable and relatively affordable ($1,200) replacement for a traditional analog DJ rig.

The NS6's size and weight contribute to a spacious design that begs for abuse. Typically, these USB DJ controllers feel a little fragile and are constructed from lightweight plastic. The NS6, by comparison, is wrapped in metal from head to toe. The oversize plastic buttons used for the main playback controls are similar to the ones we loved on the Numark NS7, and respond well to aggressive use.

The mixer section of the NS6 is one of its most unique features. It offers a total of four stereo channels that can all be mixed and layered together. Each channel can also be independently switched from digital to analog input.

Touch-sensitive strips found along the top of each deck enable you to quickly jump or skim through audio.

The top portion of the NS6 is used for navigating the included Serato Itch DJ software. Once you've learned the controls, there should be no reason to ever touch your computer during the course of a set.

The crossfader section of the NS6 includes advanced features such as fade slope control and start position.

The headphones section of the NS6 includes independent controls for volume and headphone mix, along with a switch for splitting cue and program mixes between left and right channels.

The Numark NS6 offers all the standard features we like to see on a DJ controller, including high-grade audio outputs (gold-plated RCA or balanced XLR) and line/mic input.