Review: Hercules Mobile DJ peripheral

The term mixing desk conjures up images of unwieldy, expensive equipment festooned with dials, switches and sockets.

As with so many other things in life, their complexity ensures they remain the preserve of the professionals.

The maker of the Mobile DJ has set about the Herculean task of challenging that perception, though. The result is this simple and inexpensive mixing desk that allows anyone to instantly mix tracks from a PC for use at parties and other special occasions, or just for fun.

Getting started is just a matter of plugging the USB receiver into your computer, installing the software and importing music into the program's library. The software mimics the design of the unit itself, but in addition it allows the user to customise the functions of certain buttons.

We were particularly impressed with the tooltips which clearly explain every button, making the program and the device easy to learn. Usefully, clicking on Record saves your creation as a wave file, although we would have liked the option to save in MP3 format as well.

The fact that the Mobile DJ is wireless means that it doesn't tie you to the computer, so you are free to mix music from anywhere that's in range of the computer – even in the garden. It has a rubberised, durable feel and is designed to be held with both hands. The buttons and controls on the front of the device are large, chunky and easily accessible.

There are two backlit screens with corresponding jog wheels which allow the user to select the tracks to mix. The screens also display track information and any adjustments currently in action, such as pitch bending or a change in the speed.

For those prepared to spend time learning what is essentially a new skill, using the Mobile DJ is a satisfying experience, and good value for money. Those superstar DJs shouldn't be losing any sleep just yet, though.

Vista compatible: Yes