Serato DJ for iOS works with supported controllers, mixers and other hardware. Before you start you will want to ensure that you check two things:
- Your hardware is on the supported list; check the [LINK: Serato DJ for iOS supported hardware list] to make sure yours is included.
- You have the right cable or adapter for your iPhone or iPad
Getting connected
- Power on your hardware. If it has its own power supply, plug it in and switch it on.
- Connect it to your iPhone or iPad. Use the right cable and, where needed, an adapter. This depends on whether your device has a USB-C or Lightning port. See Which connection do you need? below.
-
Open Serato DJ for iOS. A notification confirms your hardware is connecting:
- Start mixing. The buttons, knobs, faders and pads on your hardware now control the matching functions in the app.
NOTE: Some hardware, including DVS mixers and interfaces, needs a Serato DJ Suite subscription. If you connect one without a subscription, you’ll see a License Required message with the option to upgrade.
Which connection do you need?
Your setup depends on two things: the port on your iPhone or iPad, and how your hardware gets its power.
Your iPhone or iPad |
Your hardware |
Typical setup |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C | Has its own power supply | iPhone or iPad → USB-C cable or adapter → hardware |
| USB-C | Powered over USB | iPhone or iPad → powered USB-C adapter or hub → USB cable → hardware |
| Lightning | Either | iPhone or iPad → Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter → USB cable → hardware |
Which port does my device have?
These models have a USB-C port:
- iPhone 15 and later
- iPad Pro (2018 and later)
- iPad Air (2020 and later)
- iPad mini (2021 and later)
- iPad (2022 and later)
USB-C with hardware that has its own power supply.
Connect your hardware directly with a USB-C cable, or with a USB-C adapter and your hardware’s USB cable. Keep your hardware plugged into its own power supply.
USB-C with USB-powered hardware.
We recommend a powered USB-C adapter or hub, meaning one with a USB-C charging port. The Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter is one option. Plug a charger into the adapter. This gives your hardware the power it needs and keeps your iPhone or iPad charging during long sets.
Some USB-powered hardware can run from your iPhone or iPad alone. This doesn’t work with every controller or on every device.
Lightning
Most DJ hardware connects over USB, so a Lightning iPhone or iPad needs an adapter. We recommend the Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter.
The adapter has a second Lightning port for power. Plug a charger in there. Your device then charges while you play, and USB-powered hardware gets enough power to run.
Powering your hardware
Not enough power can be some of the most common cause of connection problems. If your hardware doesn’t appear, switches off, or keeps connecting and disconnecting, check the power first.
- Hardware with its own power supply: make sure it’s plugged in and switched on before you connect it.
- USB-powered hardware: use a powered adapter or hub with a charger connected wherever possible.
If you are still experiencing issue check out our troubleshooting connection article here
Still can’t find what you are looking for? Contact our Support team.