Review of the Korg Kaoss DJ controller featuring integrated Kaoss Pad effects, mixer functions, and ultra-portable design. Learn its features, pros, cons, and why it may be more for fun than pro use.
Korg Kaoss DJ Review: The Smallest DJ Controller with Big Creativity
Korg is best known for its Kaoss Pad effects units, beloved by producers and DJs alike. With the Kaoss DJ, Korg shrinks that creative energy into one of the smallest controllers on the market. Despite its toy-like appearance, it offers unique features that make it a compelling portable option. But is it a serious DJ tool or just a fun gimmick?
Size & Build
- Roughly the size of an iPhone 6s Plus, extremely portable.
- Lightweight plastic chassis with basic controls.
- RCA master out and headphone jacks.
- Can double as a standalone two-channel mixer with line-in inputs.
Controls & Features
Mixer
- Two channel faders, three-band EQ with full kills, and gain knobs.
- Crossfader for blending.
- Tempo sliders for pitch control.
- Basic transport: play, cue.
Effects: The Kaoss Pad
The defining feature is the built-in Kaoss Pad:
- 120 effect programs, including filters, delays, reverbs, and modulation.
- XY touchpad for live manipulation.
- FX Release mode allows smooth fade-out of effects.
- Includes synth sounds locked to track key, letting DJs add melodic layers.
Jog/Strip Controls
- Capacitive touch strips replace jog wheels.
- Modes: nudging, looping, hot cues.
- Loop in/out with halve/double adjustments.
Performance
The Kaoss DJ is not built for professional club sets:
- Too small for long-term use.
- Strip-based navigation can be unintuitive.
- Build quality feels toy-like.
But as a secondary controller, it shines:
- Perfect portable practice device.
- Great for producers experimenting with live FX layering.
- Fun for afterparty jams.
Pros
- Extremely portable.
- Integrated Kaoss Pad with creative FX and synths.
- Affordable entry point for casual mixing.
- Line-in mixing capability.
Cons
- Feels more like a gadget than pro gear.
- Not suited for club-level performances.
- Limited jog/transport control depth.
- Build quality is basic.
Price
As of availability:
- Around £99 in the UK, $260 in the U.S.
- Huge value difference depending on region.
Verdict
The Korg Kaoss DJ is less a professional controller and more a creative gadget. It’s great for bedroom DJs, traveling DJs who want a portable practice unit, or producers adding Korg’s legendary Kaoss FX to a setup. Aspiring professionals, however, will quickly outgrow it.
Final Score: 6/10 – Small, fun, but ultimately a niche device.