Hercules DJControl T10 Launched: Stem Slip & 10-Inch Platters
On September 24, 2026, Hercules launched the DJControl T10, a flagship controller for scratch and battle DJs. Featuring 10-inch motorized platters, an Innofader-certified InduXfader, and the innovative Stem Slip function for Serato, this 7.3 kg unit bridges digital convenience with authentic vinyl feel.
On September 24, 2026, Hercules officially entered the premium turntablism market with the launch of its new flagship controller, the DJControl T10. Designed specifically for scratch, battle, and open-format DJs, the two-channel unit represents a major evolution from the previous T7 model. By combining authentic tactile feedback with cutting-edge software integration, Hercules aims to bridge the gap between traditional vinyl setups and modern digital convenience.
Authentic Feel: 10-Inch Motorized Platters
For professional turntablists, tactile response is non-negotiable. The DJControl T10 addresses this by featuring a pair of 10-inch motorized, belt-driven platters.
Unlike static jog wheels, these platters spin, mimicking the exact physical behavior of a traditional turntable. Hercules has topped these platters with real vinyl records and premium Dr. Suzuki slipmats—a brand revered in the scratch community for providing optimal glide and reducing friction. The 10-inch size strikes an ideal balance, offering enough surface area for intricate scratch techniques while keeping the overall unit compact enough for travel.
Precision Control: The InduXfader
A battle controller is only as good as its crossfader. With the T10, Hercules introduces the InduXfader, a battle-style mixer component certified by industry-standard manufacturer Innofader.
Key features of the InduXfader include:
- Contactless Technology: The fader tracks position via electromagnetic induction rather than physical carbon contacts. This drastically reduces wear and tear from aggressive scratching, extending the lifespan of the mixer.
- Customizable Feel: DJs can adjust both the fader curve (how sharply the volume cuts in) and the cut-lag (the dead space at the edge of the fader), tailoring the response to their specific hand movements and scratch style.
The Game Changer: Stem Slip Mode
The most groundbreaking feature of the DJControl T10 is the debut of "Stem Slip." Powered by Serato, this function takes traditional Slip mode—where a track continues playing silently in the background while a DJ scratches or loops, snapping back into time when released—and applies it to individual audio stems.
In practice, this allows a DJ to isolate a vocal stem, scratch or manipulate that specific vocal, and have the instrumental track continue playing underneath unaffected. Once the DJ releases the platter, the vocal snaps perfectly back into sync with the instrumental. This opens up entirely new avenues for live remixing and open-format performances, allowing for complex routines without breaking the underlying groove.
Gig-Ready Portability and Software
Despite the inclusion of heavy motorized platters, the DJControl T10 weighs in at a manageable 7.3 kg. This makes it a highly portable option for traveling DJs who refuse to compromise on performance quality.
The controller is fully equipped for modern digital workflows, featuring:
- 16 RGB performance pads for cue points, loops, and sampler triggering.
- Dedicated FX paddles for quick, tactile effects application.
- Bundled software licenses for Serato DJ Pro (including the Pitch 'n Time expansion) and DJUCED Pro.
Takeaways for DJs
The September 24, 2026 release of the Hercules DJControl T10 marks a significant milestone for the manufacturer. By integrating high-end hardware like the InduXfader and Dr. Suzuki slipmats with innovative software features like Stem Slip, Hercules provides a robust, gig-ready setup. For open-format and battle DJs looking to upgrade their rig, the T10 offers a compelling blend of classic vinyl feel and next-generation stem manipulation.