Why don’t some features of my MIDI controller work as intended?
Some buttons, pads, or lights on your DJ controller might not behave as expected in djay. This usually happens because of how the controller was designed — for example, using special firmware, HID communication, or hardware-based controls that don’t follow standard MIDI behavior.
Introduction
Most DJ controllers use a standard language called MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) to communicate with DJ software like djay Pro, sending digital instructions whenever you move a fader, press a pad, or turn a knob.
Not every control behaves the same way, though — and if some buttons, pads, or lights don’t respond as expected, it usually comes down to how the controller was designed or how it communicates with the software.
Manufacturer Restrictions
Some controller features are made to work best within the manufacturer’s own software setup. Because of this, a few functions might not be available or behave differently in other DJ apps.
Exclusive features: Certain functions rely on custom data formats or special communication that go beyond standard MIDI. These are part of the controller’s unique design and aren’t always accessible to third-party software.
HID and firmware control: Some controllers use HID (Human Interface Device) or internal firmware to handle things like jog wheel screens, pad colors, or effect buttons. Since these controls don’t use normal MIDI messages, they can’t be reassigned in djay.
For the best experience, use controllers that are officially supported in djay or built with open MIDI support.
Hardware-Based Controls
Some buttons, knobs, or switches are built directly into the controller’s hardware and don’t send any data to the computer. When that happens, djay doesn’t “see” the action, so the software can’t respond.
Fixed hardware logic: Certain controls, like pad mode switches or jog wheel displays, are managed entirely inside the controller’s firmware instead of through djay.
Analog or hybrid controls: On some mixers, knobs like EQ or filter controls are physically wired to the mixer’s sound system and not to the software.
No data sent back: If a control doesn’t send data to djay, it can’t be changed, remapped, or edited.
This isn’t a bug or an issue with djay — it’s simply how some controllers are designed to work.
Getting the Best Experience
To get the best results, choose controllers that work seamlessly with djay or follow open MIDI standards. These provide the smoothest control and most reliable response during your sets.
For more information on supported DJ gear, visit the official hardware page.