Connecting a MIDI controller

Using a MIDI controller with djay gives you hands-on control over your mix, from triggering cue points to adjusting EQ and effects in real time. Officially supported controllers feature plug-and-play support, so they work right out of the box. For added flexibility, djay also supports a selection of Bluetooth controllers for simple wireless setups.

You can view the full list of officially supported controllers on the DJ Gear page. Setting up an officially supported controller is quick and easy thanks to plug-and-play support.

How to connect a supported MIDI controller

1. Make sure djay is open and ready.
2. Connect your Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter to your iPhone (if your controller doesn’t have a Lightning connector).
3. Connect the power adapter for your iPhone to the USB adapter to charge your iPhone and to power your controller if required.
4. Connect your controller via a spare USB port and power it up, if needed.
5. djay should automatically load default settings for the audio interface.

note

If your preferred controller isn’t supported, you can still use it with djay by mapping it manually. djay supports a wide range of MIDI-compatible devices through its built-in MIDI mapping system. Go to the MIDI Mapping section for more details.

How to connect a supported Bluetooth controller

djay supports certain Bluetooth-enabled DJ controllers (such as the Hercules DJControl Mix) using the built-in Bluetooth configuration tool. Wireless control is useful for casual setups, practice sessions, or mobile DJing where portability and fewer cables matter.

1. Enable Bluetooth on your device (Settings > Bluetooth).
2. Power on your controller and set it to pairing mode (usually indicated by flashing LEDs — check the controller manual if unsure).
3. Open djay.
4. Go to Dashboard > Settings > MIDI devices > Bluetooth MIDI devices.
5. In the Bluetooth MIDI devices window, select your controller from the list.
6. Tap Connect.

Once paired, your controller is ready to use wirelessly with djay.

Check the list of officially supported controllers to see which models officially work with djay for iOS and support Bluetooth.