Hercules Inpulse 300MKII

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 USB DJ Controller User Manual

Model: Inpulse 300MKII | Brand: Hercules

Introduction

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 is a comprehensive 2-deck USB DJ controller designed for aspiring DJs. It integrates a full DJ board layout with intelligent learning features to facilitate skill development. This all-in-one DJ machine provides essential tools for learning, practicing, and performing, making it suitable for beginners and those looking to enhance their home DJ setup.

Key Features:

  • Faster Learning & Confident Mixing: Designed for new DJs with a full layout and smart learning tools.
  • Effortless Beatmatching: Features an integrated Beatmatch Guide with light cues for manual track alignment, aiding in ear and hand training.
  • Versatile Music Source: Mix tracks from your computer or stream millions of songs via Beatport ADVANCED, Beatsource, SoundCloud GO+, or TIDAL.
  • Ready-to-Mix: Includes a built-in sound card and DJ software, allowing immediate plug-and-play mixing without additional equipment.
  • Software Compatibility: Comes with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED, with full compatibility for Serato DJ Pro, ensuring future-proof progression.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2, you should find the following items:

  • DJ Deck (Controller Unit)
  • USB Cable
  • Owner's Manual
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 in its retail box

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 controller shown in its retail packaging.

Setup

  1. Connect to Computer: Use the provided USB cable to connect the DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 to your computer (Mac or PC). The controller is USB-powered, so no external power adapter is needed.
  2. Install Software: Install either Serato DJ Lite or DJUCED software on your computer. These are included with the controller. For advanced features, Serato DJ Pro is fully compatible.
  3. Connect Audio: Plug your headphones into the dedicated headphone jack on the controller. Connect your speakers to the master output (RCA) on the rear of the controller. The built-in sound card handles all audio output.
  4. Launch Software: Open your chosen DJ software (Serato DJ Lite or DJUCED). The controller should be automatically recognized.
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 connected to a laptop

The DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 connected and ready for use with a laptop.

Official product video showcasing the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK II.

Operating the Controller

The DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 offers a user-friendly interface with various controls for mixing and performance.

Jog Wheels:

The enhanced jog wheels provide a natural feel for scratching and precise track manipulation. Use them to nudge tracks, scratch, or navigate through your music.

Close-up of the jog wheel on the Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2

Detailed view of a jog wheel, essential for track control and scratching.

Performance Pads:

The 16 performance pads (8 per deck) allow you to trigger hot cues, loops, and effects. These pads are responsive and designed for dynamic live performance.

Close-up of the performance pads and tempo fader

The performance pads enable triggering hot cues, loops, and effects, while the tempo fader adjusts track speed.

Beatmatch Guide:

The exclusive Beatmatch Guide provides real-time light cues to assist in manually syncing tracks. This visual aid helps train your ear and hands for beatmatching without relying solely on sync buttons.

Diagram explaining the Beatmatch Guide feature

Visual representation of the Beatmatch Guide, showing tempo and beat align indicators.

Mixer Section:

The central mixer section includes controls for gain, EQ (High, Mid, Low), and filters for each deck, along with master volume and headphone controls. The Intelligent Music Assistant (IMA) in DJUCED suggests the best next track based on energy and key.

Close-up of the central mixer section with EQ, filter, and Beatmatch Guide

The mixer section provides comprehensive control over audio levels, equalization, and filtering for both decks.

Software Integration:

The controller is deeply integrated with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED, allowing seamless control over your music library, effects, and performance features directly from the hardware.

Screenshot of DJUCED software interface

The DJUCED software interface, displaying track waveforms, library, and mixing controls.

Screenshot of Serato DJ Lite software interface

The Serato DJ Lite software interface, displaying tracks, waveforms, and mixing controls.

Connections

The Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 features essential connectivity options for a complete DJ setup.

  • USB Port: For connecting to your computer and powering the device.
  • Main Output (RCA): Connects to your main speakers or sound system.
  • Headphone Output (3.5mm/1/8 inch): For monitoring your mix.
  • Built-in Sound Card: Provides high-quality audio output directly from the controller.
Side view of Hercules DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2 showing connectivity ports

Side view of the controller highlighting the USB and audio output connections.

Specifications

  • Item Weight: 5.6 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 3.78 x 20.16 x 12.68 inches
  • Item Model Number: 4780944
  • Color Name: Black
  • Compatible Devices: MAC, PC
  • Hardware Interface: USB
  • Supported Software: DJUCED, Serato DJ Lite (Serato DJ Pro compatible)
  • Material Type: Plastic
  • Operating System: PC (also compatible with Mac)
  • First Available: December 31, 2022

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2, follow these maintenance guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the controller. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.
  • Storage: Store the controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and excessive dust.
  • Cable Care: Handle USB and audio cables with care. Avoid sharp bends or excessive pulling to prevent damage.
  • Software Updates: Regularly check for software and firmware updates from Hercules or Serato to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your DJControl Inpulse 300 MK2, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

  • No Power/Connectivity: Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and your computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
  • Software Not Recognizing Controller: Verify that the latest drivers (if required) and software versions are installed. Restart both the software and your computer.
  • No Sound Output: Check all audio cable connections (headphones, speakers). Ensure volume levels on the controller, software, and your computer's operating system are appropriately set. Confirm the correct audio output device is selected in your DJ software settings.
  • Pads/Buttons Unresponsive: Close and reopen the DJ software. Ensure no other applications are interfering with the controller's operation.

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Hercules website or the documentation included with your product. You can also find FAQs and support resources on their dedicated support pages.

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.

After a successful submission, we securely hash the supplied account or form email before sending it to Microsoft Advertising for conversion attribution. Privacy details.