Numark NS6 Professional 4-Channel DJ Controller with Serato: Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Numark NS6 is a professional 4-channel digital DJ controller featuring a complete built-in mixer and four decks of software control. Designed in collaboration with Serato, it offers powerful performance capabilities for DJs. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your NS6 controller.

2. What's in the Box

• NS6 Controller
• USB cable
• Power supply
• Serato ITCH software CD (upgradable to Serato DJ)
• Quickstart guide

3. Setup

3.1. Connecting the NS6 Controller

1. Power Connection: Connect the included power supply to the NS6 and then to a power outlet.
2. USB Connection: Connect the NS6 to your computer using the provided USB cable. This establishes MIDI communication and audio transfer.
3. Audio Output: For main audio output, connect your speakers or sound system to the balanced XLR outputs or RCA master outputs on the rear panel.
   

   Figure 1: Rear panel connections of the Numark NS6, including balanced outputs, RCA outputs, and various inputs.

4. Headphone Connection: Connect your headphones to the 1/4" or 1/8" headphone jacks on the front panel for monitoring.
   

   Figure 2: Front panel of the Numark NS6, highlighting headphone outputs and crossfader adjustments.
5. External Inputs: The NS6 features four sets of stereo RCA inputs, including two selectable turntable inputs and two 1/4" mic inputs. Connect external audio sources such as turntables, CD players, or microphones as needed.

3.2. Software Installation

The NS6 includes Serato ITCH software, which is upgradable to Serato DJ. Follow these steps to install the software:

1. Insert the Serato ITCH software CD into your computer's drive.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. It is recommended to download the latest version of Serato ITCH or Serato DJ directly from the official Serato website for the most up-to-date features and compatibility.
3. After installation, connect your NS6 controller and launch the Serato software. The software should automatically detect the controller.
4. Check for and install any recommended firmware updates for your NS6 controller through the Serato software or Numark's official website.

4. Operating Instructions

Figure 3: The Numark NS6 DJ controller in use with a laptop, showcasing its layout and integration.

4.1. Core Controls and Layout

The NS6 features a comprehensive layout designed for intuitive control over Serato DJ. Familiarize yourself with the main sections:

• Platters: Two large, touch-sensitive illuminated platters for scratching, cueing, and track manipulation.
• Mixer Section: Central 4-channel mixer with dedicated EQ, gain, and filter controls for each channel.
• Performance Pads: Hot cue, loop, sampler, and effect control buttons.
• Navigation: Browse knob and load buttons for efficient music library management.
• Effects Section: Dedicated controls for applying and manipulating various audio effects.

Figure 4: Detailed top view of the Numark NS6, illustrating the arrangement of controls for mixing and performance.

4.2. Platter Operation

The NS6 platters are highly responsive and touch-activated, offering 3,600 ticks of resolution per rotation for precise control. They are designed to respond to your touch without requiring forced depression.

• Scratch Mode: Touch the top surface of the platter to engage scratch mode, emulating vinyl turntable behavior.
• Pitch Bend: Use the outer edge of the platter to temporarily adjust the track's tempo (pitch bend).
• Visual Feedback: The illuminated rings on the platters provide visual feedback on track position and deck status.

4.3. 4-Deck Control

The NS6 allows control over four decks within Serato DJ. Use the layer selectors next to each platter to switch between Decks 1 and 3 on the left side, and Decks 2 and 4 on the right. This enables complex mixing, layering effects, and combining elements from multiple tracks simultaneously.

4.4. Virtual Needle Drop (Strip Search)

The Strip Search feature allows you to instantly locate any point in a track. Position-indicating LEDs provide a visual representation of the track's timeline, making navigation quick and efficient without needing to look at your computer screen.

4.5. Mixer Functionality

The integrated 4-channel mixer can operate independently, allowing you to mix external audio sources (turntables, CD players, microphones) with tracks from your computer. Each mixer channel has dedicated 3-band EQ and gain controls for precise audio shaping.

4.6. Effects Control

The NS6 features two banks of assignable effects with parameters that can be manipulated in real-time. Choose from effects such as Delay, Crusher, Braker, LPF, HPF, and Repeater. Effects can be layered and blended for creative sound design.

4.7. Looping and Hot Cues

• Manual Loop: Set custom in and out points for loops.
• Auto Loop: Automatically create perfect loops based on predefined parameters. Loops can be divided, multiplied, or shifted.
• Loop Roll: Create dynamic stuttering effects while the track continues to play, ideal for building energy.
• Hot Cues: Assignable hot-cue buttons allow you to digitally mark and instantly jump to different parts of a song, functioning as on-the-fly samplers.

4.8. Advanced Navigation (Skip Button)

The Skip button, in conjunction with the platter, allows you to quickly navigate through a track while maintaining the beat. This feature is useful for finding specific sections or escaping a track quickly without disrupting the mix.

4.9. Beat Grid Adjustment

The Beat Grid function enables manual adjustment of a song's beat grid. This is particularly useful for tracks with inconsistent timing, allowing you to perfectly align the beat for seamless auto-looping, beat sync effects, or 4-layer deck synchronization.

4.10. Official Product Video

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly wipe the controller's surface with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Store the NS6 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If transporting, use a protective case.
• Cable Management: Ensure all cables are properly connected and not under strain to prevent damage to ports or cables.

6. Troubleshooting

• Controller Not Detected by Software:
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the NS6 and your computer.
  • Verify that the NS6 is powered on.
  • Check if the latest Serato software and NS6 drivers/firmware are installed.
  • Try restarting your computer and the NS6 controller.
• Audio Issues (No Sound/Distortion):
  • Confirm all audio cables (XLR, RCA, headphones) are correctly connected.
  • Check volume levels on the NS6, your computer, and your speakers/sound system.
  • Ensure the correct audio output device is selected in your computer's sound settings and Serato software.
• Jog Wheel Malfunction (e.g., losing scratch mode):
  • Recalibrate the controller if the software provides this option.
  • Ensure the platters are clean and free from debris.
  • Update controller firmware to the latest version.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Numark website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.