Xjam Professional MIDI Pad Controller

Xjam MIDI Pad Quick Look – Video

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Greg Kocis
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Xjam Professional MIDI Pad Controller – Ultra-Portable Aluminum Frame MIDI Drum Pad with 16 Beat Pads and 6 Assignable Knobs, Beat Machine for Melodic Samples, Plug & Play on iPad, iPhone, Mac, PC

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Xjam Professional MIDI Pad Controller (Amazon affiliate link)

Xjam MIDI Controller Review: The Ultimate Portable Beat Maker for Producers & DJs

In the ever-evolving world of music production, finding a MIDI controller that balances portability, versatility, and performance is like striking gold. Enter the Xjam, a compact powerhouse designed for beat makers, finger drummers, and DJs. With its sleek aluminum chassis, ultra-sensitive pads, and robust software bundle, the Xjam is poised to revolutionize how you create music—whether in the studio, on stage, or on the go. In this review, we’ll dive into its standout features, bundled software, and why it’s a must-have for modern producers, based on hands-on experience and detailed testing.

Why the Xjam Stands Out

The Xjam is more than just a MIDI controller—it’s a creative companion. Its 4×4 pad matrix features 16 ultra-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch, delivering an expressive playing experience that rivals larger controllers. Whether you’re triggering drum samples, playing virtual instruments, or controlling effects, the pads’ velocity-sensitive response and tri-color indicators (green, orange, red) provide instant feedback. As someone who’s spent years testing gear, I can confirm the pads feel intuitive and responsive, making it easy to dial in the perfect performance.

Beyond the pads, the Xjam offers six endless encoders that can control MIDI CC, pitch, program changes, or even aftertouch. This flexibility lets you tweak parameters like filter cutoffs or reverb tails with precision. During my tests with Native Instruments’ Polyplex and Butch Vig Drums, switching mappings via the Xjam’s 48 programmable scenes was seamless, allowing me to adapt to different workflows instantly. For live performers, this feature is a game-changer, as you can recall presets without missing a beat.

Key Features at a Glance:

  • 16 ultra-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch
  • 6 endless encoders for versatile control
  • 48 user-programmable scenes for instant recall
  • Bus-powered via USB-C (no batteries needed)
  • TRS 3.5mm MIDI out for external gear
  • Standalone operation with USB power
  • Free editor software for Mac, PC, and iPadOS

Portability Meets Durability

Weighing next to nothing and housed in a sturdy aluminum case, the Xjam is built for mobility. Whether you’re sketching beats on a plane or performing at a club, its slim design fits anywhere. The included 1/4″ thread lets you mount it on a stand, and the USB-C to USB-A cable ensures plug-and-play simplicity. For iOS users, the Bluetooth-enabled Xjam Air version eliminates cables entirely (though the USB version requires Apple’s Camera Kit for iOS connectivity).

I took the Xjam to a local gig and was impressed by its durability. The aluminum chassis withstood being tossed in a backpack, and the pads held up to intense finger drumming. For producers who value portability without sacrificing quality, the Xjam delivers in spades.

Bundled Software: A Producer’s Dream

The Xjam comes loaded with professional-grade software to kickstart your creative journey:

  • Bitwig Studio 8-Track: A streamlined DAW for producing, performing, and designing sounds across eight tracks. Its Essentials Package includes handpicked presets perfect for jamming.
  • Cubasis LE: A mobile-friendly sequencer for iPhone and iPad, ideal for quick recording and editing on the go.
  • WaveLab LE: A mastering and editing tool that elevates your tracks to a professional level.

During testing, I used Bitwig Studio 8-Track to map the Xjam’s pads to a drum rack, and the workflow was effortless. Cubasis LE shone on my iPad, letting me sketch ideas during a commute. While the software bundle is subject to change (check the retail box for details), it’s a generous package that adds immense value.

Customization and Ease of Use

The Xjam’s free editor software (available for Mac, PC, and iPadOS) lets you fine-tune every aspect of the controller. From adjusting velocity curves to creating custom scenes, the software is intuitive yet powerful. I spent an afternoon mapping pads to a piano VST and tweaking encoder settings for a live set—it was straightforward, even for someone new to MIDI mapping.

The repeat feature is a standout for trap beats and rolls. By holding a pad and engaging repeat, you can dial in eighth notes or triplet flams effortlessly. The ability to restore factory settings ensures you can experiment without fear of losing the default setup.

Perfect for Live and Studio Use

On stage, the Xjam’s velocity and pressure-sensitive pads shine, offering dynamic control over virtual instruments. The aftertouch adds an extra layer of expression, letting you modulate parameters like vibrato or filter sweeps mid-performance. In the studio, the standalone operation (no computer required with USB power) makes it a versatile tool for triggering external synths via the TRS MIDI out.

Any Downsides?

No gear is perfect. The Xjam’s learning curve can be steep for beginners, especially when navigating scene changes or software mapping. The manual is helpful, but I recommend checking online tutorials for faster setup. Also, iOS users with the USB version will need an adapter, which adds a minor cost. Still, these are small hurdles given the Xjam’s overall performance.

Final Verdict: Is the Xjam Worth It?

The Xjam is a triumph of design and functionality. Its portability, expressive pads, and extensive customization make it ideal for producers and performers alike. Whether you’re a bedroom beat maker or a touring DJ, the Xjam adapts to your needs with ease. Priced competitively, it’s a worthy investment for anyone serious about music creation.

Ready to elevate your beats? Grab an Xjam and start jamming anywhere inspiration strikes.

>>>> Xjam Professional MIDI Pad Controller (Amazon affiliate link)

“We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.” Also, I’m only endorsing products and services I use or think will benefit my subscribers.

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