So I decided to take some time and write a Numark Mixtrack Platinum review. The controller is one of the latest additions to the Numark family. Numark intends that the controller for the skilled amateur. As such there’s a lot of features added for ease of use and monitoring for the user. While at the same time some top range features are left out. All said and done the controller is very good value for its price.
Multiple Decks
Usually a feature like this is only found in higher priced controllers, but the Mixtrack Platinum comes with 4 channels split between 2 decks. Allowing you to load up to four songs/clips to play at any time. The deck select allows for mixing in samples and clips easily. Most controllers at this price only allow for 2 channels.
Displays
The main selling feature of the Mixtrack Platinum is its Hi-resolution jogwheel displays. These are very nice as they’re easily seen and monitorable by the DJ. They show all kinds of useful information, like the BPM, platter position, remaining time in the song, a key lock and the pitch. However, one issue that I ran into was the display easily got a scratch from transport so you need to be careful not to throw it into a backpack with a bunch of loss objects.
Another piece of information they show is a great indicator of which channel is currently running on the deck. Each deck can swap between two different channels. This display was unexpectedly very useful, and much better than the traditional indicating LED in the heat of a performance.
Comes with Serato (Or Not)
The controller does not come with the full Serato, instead it comes with a lite version called Serato DJ Intro. It’s definitely enough to get you to start mixing but if you want to get real fancy you’re going to have to buy the full version of the program. The Intro program will not allow you to record tracks within the program and limits quite a lot of aspects. To get full Serato you need to pay an additional $10 a month or a flat fee of 100USD
Limited Track Effects
One issue I found was there was a very limited amount of track effects. At the most there were 2 settings for each effect. Essentially making you feel limited on what you can do with the effects themselves. At least you can stack 2 effects allowing for tons combinations so it’s not like there’s not a lot to do. But it definitely feels like begginer controller. As for using the effect settings themselves, they have an intuitive dynamic touch strips where you slide your finger along, similar to a straight fader, but fancier. I didn’t have any issues with it, but I do worry it may misbehave if your fingertips are wet or cold.
The Hardware itself
When it comes to the design and construction of the controller. I’m impressed, it’s pretty sturdy constructed with hard plastic. It’s durable and lightweight allowing for travel, I wouldn’t feel bad putting it in the hands of kids. Something that always impresses me and is actually one of the things I look for in a controller that this one has is the 100mm faders. Long faders allow for you to very precisely adjust your settings manually. It doesn’t seem like much but that extra physical space is really nice.
This Mixtrack comes with its own soundcard, it’s a decent 24bit card that allows for great sound. Anything more would just be a placebo to human ears. The only issue is that it’s RCA out only which is unbalanced and can lead to crossover in large club setups. It has two monitor feeds, allowing for both 1/8 and 1/4 headphones.
Another hardware consideration is the power. If you opt to use an external soundcard, or have a complex set up you may need to also look at getting a powered USB hub. The Numark Mixtrack Platinum only comes with the option of being powered by USB. This means you need to plug it into your computer, and if you bring a laptop your USB slots may be limited (see an example in the pic below) and if you have too many devices running it may start to misbehave while running on low power. Another issue I found is it didn’t come with a power off. I have my computer in my bedroom and have to fully disconnect the controller from my computer otherwise it stays on. A slightly distracting personal issue but one all the same.
The Rundown
Overall after carrying out the Numark Mixtrack Platinum review I’ve seen that it’s quite good for it’s price. It does have some weaknesses moving into the professional sphere but it will carry you well as a midrange DJ controller. It has some nice standards of living, like it’s original Jogwheel displays, yet at the same time has some issues with the more creative aspects of DJing.
First Impression of the Numark Party Mix Starter DJ Controller
I was surprised by how small the Party Mix is in person when I first saw it. Obviously, I knew it was going to be compact, but I was initially worried it might impact performance. However, I’m happy to report my worry was for nothing. If anything, the smaller chassis allows me to take it more places, and my kids can easily tote it from room to room while they play with it as well.
The plug n’ play aspect is appreciated. Nothing’s worse than installing a bunch of extra drivers or having to buy extra gear to setup something like a beginner’s DJ controller. I like that it comes with its on software. As I later mention in this review, it’s optimized to work with the software it comes with. Luckily, you actually get the software for free—for keeps. This would have been a downside if it was merely a free trial, but thankfully you can continue to use it, which makes it worth it, in my opinion.
The Party Mix easily connected with both headphones and speakers we already had at our house. The connection was pretty standard, so for those who already have their own, you likely won’t have to buy any, which is another very likable aspect.
Most important is functionality. The Party Mix offers a lot of capabilities for a DJ controller that is targeted at beginners. You can actually make some quality mixes and it’s easily to tinker with them to get the sound that you want—the scratch pads are especially fun to play with, which I suppose is what most of us adults who have always imagined ourselves DJing have been dying to do since we were kids, since, you know, there were actually records back then.
As I mentioned before, I have kids, and they love the Party Mix as much as I do, so, in my opinion, it’s great for all ages, which makes me love it more.
The Pros
Class-compliant, plug n’ play
Free Virtual DJ LE software included
Built-in soundcard—no extra sound software required, simply plug in speakers or headphones
Compact chassis are space-saving
Dual scratch pads
Dual slider controls
8 total multifunctional trigger buttons for cues and samples
Equalization controls for customizing master gain, bass and more
Built-in lightshow feature; RGB LED backlighting
User manual included
Warranty included
Lightweight at 1.8lbs—easy to travel with
The Cons
To fully access the included free software, Virtual DJ LE, you have to go to the website and enter the registration code. This is a bit annoying, but at the same time, it is your free pass for the software, and the good news is once you enter it, it’s yours for life.
Since it’s intended for beginners, it’s really only designed to be used with the included software, but this isn’t really an issue for the DJing novice, and if you end up becoming serious about DJing, you’ll likely upgrade to a different controller anyway.
Warranty
Numark’s Party Mix is covered under a warranty, so if any issues arise during the warranty period, you’re good.
Final verdict
The Numark Party Mix is an ideal DJ controller for beginner DJs by providing all the basics you need to get a handle on basic DJing skills and concepts—and then take them to the next level.
Pioneer is pretty much a gold standard for DJ controllers. They carry high quality products for all levels from entry to professional. This DJ controller is geared toward semi-professional controllerist DJs who wants to see the live remixing innovations of state of the art controllers. I would suggest this controller to someone who’s been DJing for a while, someone who wants to become a professional DJ. It’s an intermediate controller and beginners may be a little lost. But it’s absolutely great for learning as well and won’t take too long to pick up.
Design
The setup is an asymmetrical two turntable design with one on either side and a two channel mixer in the middle. It comes with it’s own amazing sound card and is USB powered. The DDJSR is smaller and lighter version of the brand’s SX model. It is extremely compact at just over shoulder width allowing for portability and ease of setup for temporary shows. It comes with a rugged steel face plate. On top of that it can probably handle a fall or two without too much issue. Meaning it can handle travel to and from gigs without babying. The sides are a strong and sturdy plastic. It is powered by USB for laptop connectivity with Serato installed. The sound card hosts a monitor headphone output, microphone input, balanced auxiliary inputs, and a balanced output to the PA.
The controls all feel like they’re extremely high quality. The wheels are really responsive, smooth and feel durable. The performance pads are very nice, somewhat rubbery but easy and satisfying to press and time with the beat.
The two turntables are asymmetrical where the layout on both the left and the right are the same, which may throw off some DJs used to a mirrored deck setup. Each deck comes with 8 performance effect pads, four effect selection controls, three FX knobs , a jog wheel, tempo control, and time signature selection.
Each deck has a shift key allowing you to moved to a third and fourth deck and control over up to four tracks at once. The DDJSR having 4 decks means this product is an amazing next step when moving up from an entry level controller. Though even as a beginner you’ll be able to efficiently and quickly learn the ropes with the software controlled effects to produce a professional sound and performance.
The deck’s jog wheels are pretty large and take up a big percentage of real estate on the compact controller. They’re not too big that they overtake it, so it’s actually pretty nice to have due to precision. The wheels also have multiple functionality depending on how you spin them. The top of the wheel allows you to scratch, while the side of the wheel allows you to skip and fine-tune where you are in a track in Serato.
Performance Pads
A huge plus is the effects are geared towards a live and impromptu environment, having only a cursory understanding of what the effect does is all you need. No additional preparation other than the knowledge is needed as the beat mapping and computer will take control of all the settings. Basically if you keep the phrasing and downbeats of your track intact you’ll find you can do some ridiculously amazing things with this piece of gear effortlessly. You just have to choose the beat lengths. Just keep an eye on the looping length to keep control of the beat with a cursory glance.
The most important part to realize is that unlike a loop or roll the slicer allows you to work with parts of the music that haven’t happened yet without impacting the rest of what gets played. You can insert future beats over the track in time with the music. Allowing you to bring in effects before they’ve happened and a whole new dimension to your creativity without ruining the flow of the track. You can add in some pretty awesome buildups and other effects on the fly and really make your show shine easily with this controller.
On top of these standard of living improvements for live shows, the DDJSR also comes with Pad Plus. It’s essentially a set of alternative settings to create next level effects. For example the slicer pad plus makes the slicer pads become triggerable effects like reverb fade outs. Once again these effects are all perfectly in sync with the music that can be incorporated at any time.
FX Knobs and Software
In addition the DDJSR comes with 12 FX software packs and has lots of additional ones for purchase through the app package. You can have up to three active at a time and choose between having one effect that you have full control over 3 parameters of that effect and really deep dive into creating something unique. Or you can go with a much broader strokes with 3 effects being controlled at once. This is done through three FX knobs at the top of each deck. Honestly they take some getting used to as each effect is mapped it’s own way. But for the most part they seem to follow intuitive rules for knob assignment.
Slip mode
One of the premium features of this controller is the Slip Mode setting. Essentially what this setting does is allow for the track to continue to progress regardless of what’s done on the controller. So for example if you pause the track in Slip mode, the sound will be paused and won’t play out loud, but the track will keep going quietly on your Serato program. Essentially it mutes the track during loops, scratching, samples, and even “pausing”. So if you put effects on the start and stop of a song you can trigger them without interrupting the song, just by pausing and playing the track.
This brings us to the greatest strength of the DDJSR. You never have to interrupt your song to create effects.This is why I think it’s the best DJ controller for controllerist DJs as they will see the most benefit. But this controller just makes your performance so damn smooth when everything you do works with the flow of the music instead of in place of it. Whether you’re using Pad triggers, slip mode or FX knobs this controller’s got you covered.
Audio Mixer and Serato Sound Card
As a standard controller staple there’s not much to say about the mixer. Your expected features are there and everything is easy to use, well designed and fine. The mixer comes with trim, EQ and a high and low pass filter for controlling base in your performance.
The sound card on this piece of gear is really, really nice and extremely high quality. This is where Pioneer steps up their game. In addition to Serato’s output it comes with inputs for your Mic and Aux in to bring in more sound. The device has a balanced 1/4 jack output to make sure your sound comes out crisp. When I say the sound card is extremely high quality I mean it. It comes with 24 bit sound at a 44.1k sample rate. This means it sounds way better than it’s price point, from deep bass to high high hats. It is greater than Bluray sound quality. For an easy comparison, it’s got 256 times more precision on frequencies than CDs. Take the time to find some lossless tracks and you can blow your audience away with studio quality sound.
USB Powered
The USB power is both good and bad. It cuts down on necessary cables and cleans up your play area for sure. But if you have too many USB devices plugged into your computer you can find yourself with power issues that may mess up your setup. If you’re thinking of hooking up multiple USB powered devices to your laptop look into a powered USB hub.
Serato Software
The DDJSR comes with a full version of Serato DJ (Normally $99). Of course it integrates very effectively with the Serato software that comes with the product. It was made for it after all. The software itself is frequently championed as one of the best. It’s extremely stable and has never crashed on me. Make sure your laptop can handle it though. The software lets you set 8 cue points per track. Which just so happens to be the max of this controller. It has my favorite library organization as well with Key, BPM and custom flagging.
Conclusion
The Pioneer DDJSR is one of my favorite controllers available on the market right now. Everything about it is tailored to creating a one of a kind live show that matches your personality. Whether it’s the rugged construction for carting it off to venues. The portable size without losing usability. The seamless effects integration with playing tracks. Or the unbelievably good sound card that puts out arena sound system quality. You gotta pick it up today.
So you’re thinking to get into the world of DJing. Well before you become master of the dance floor with the best DJ speaker setup on the block; you’ll need to find the right introductory gear to get started and learn the ins and outs of the game.
Whether your want to pump a crowd or create something personal; I’ve put together a list of great controllers for newbies – young and old. Nothing is more fun than playing and mixing beats for others to enjoy. Below you’ll be able to find the best DJ kits for beginners from our handpicked list of controllers that give you the best value for the cost.
This list of controllers is perfect for jumping into DJing.
Rundown of The Best Beginner Controllers
Numark Mixtrack 3
DJs need to give themselves freedom to explore their trade. This controller lets you experiment and manipulate music like a pro. The Numark Mixtrack 3 is an amazing DJ Controller. It has enough features for you to hone your trade.
For the price, the DJ controller is a great bargain. It’s biggest draw are the large faders on each deck. They allow for some real fine-tuning accuracy compared to most kits. This precision will go a long way in teaching you how to find the perfect balance. This controller shines best for creating, recording and perfecting mix tracks at home. It does require a bit of additional setup however. Headphones will need to be plugged into a computer, as it doesn’t have an external sound card.
This is the newest controller from Pioneer is the DDJ-200, it’s intended as an entry level controller. Utilizing free phone, tablet and laptop applications you can jump right in to mixing and learning the ropes. No laptop needed. It’s price point is low, and it’s feature set is smaller, but everything translates if you’re looking for more power down the road. The controller comes with compatibility for most free DJ applications.
The main strengths of the controller of its size and price point. For new DJs its an excellent starting point (In fact I’ve wished Pioneer would put something out at this level for a while now with Numark eating up all the market share). It’s size is really helpful in case you want to just play around or test new techniques. It’s much less focused on playing a show and excels in intimate settings. This is the perfect controller if there’s any uncertainty. Especially for people who just want to test the hobby out. However if you’re really thinking about putting a lot of effort into the skill, I would personally look at the DDJ-400 instead.
The controller works with tons of free applications, allowing for learning the many different softwares. WeDJ, Algoriddims DJay, Edjing Mix and Rekordbox DJ. This is a massive strength for beginners because you don’t need a laptop to run the applications iOS and Android devices are fine, saving money and jumping right into the mixes. The controller even comes with some tutorials with WeDJ.
Crossfader’s test of the DDJ 200:
Hercules DJControl Compact Controller
This is one of the most cost efficient controllers on the list. I would highly suggest this one for parents with children looking to try out DJing. It’s small, cost effective, and simplistic enough to use. This controller was created by Hercules with the intention to reach people who are on the fence and just want to dip their feet in the hobby before fully investing in equipment.
This portable controller has all the baseline features. These fundamentals are present in more expensive gear and covers all the basics of DJing. If you’re looking for similar cheap controllers with a more comprehensive feature set, check out this guide on the best compact DJ controllers.
Basically if you need to learn something, it will be on this controller. Plus at the cost, it’s very good for figuring out if DJing is for you in the first place. This will definitely take you to an intermediate user level and get you going. One major bonus is a full version of software comes with this so, there are no other additional fees if you want to dive into the hobby a bit more.
The Pioneer DDJ-SB3 is the Pioneer’s entry level pro DJ controller. Not only is it beginner friendly, but it’s also good to go for shows. As you get used to the device you’ll quickly find out that it’s fully loaded for it’s price.
This is the only controller on the list that will give you access to this advanced skill-sets. It has four decks for queuing tracks meaning there’s more to mix, and more to juggle. It has extremely good sound quality and a professional layout.
Beginners who learn to use to its limits will be able to use any controller on the market. It’s robust and definitely built to last. Comes with a sound card and features that blow everything else on this list out of the water. If you’re looking to actually break into doing live shows eventually, the DDJ-SB3 would be my main pick.
All in all this is a very good entry into DJing for youngsters and hobbyists. The software is extremely easy to use. It has more settings and features to learn than the Hercules mentioned above and it’s perfect for mixing small parties and comes with a built in light show. It’s a little more durable than other controllers on this list.
The biggest feature is the soundcard, you can hook this up to an RCA speaker output without additional gear. Great for live mini shows at home.
These are my top picks for someone who would be interested in getting started with an entry level controller. I chose these more for people who are looking to dabble to see if the hobby is a fit for them. As such the price points are low because I consider most of these beginner dj controllers.
That said most of these controllers have more features than other similarly priced models and stand above in quality and reviews. If you’re willing to pay for the best and want to start with the top of the line, definitely check out this DDJ SR review.
Whether you start at the high or low end. You want to be able to explore and grow your skills and find something that works within your budget. With these controllers you won’t ever feel restrained and they’ll take you far.
Picking Up DJing? Making The Most Of Your New Hobby
DJing can be quite intimidating if you’re a complete newbie. Honestly it’s the same as it is with any other musical instrument. To make the most out of your new investment I have a course suggestion. You can be rocking a crowd within a week. It’s much more comprehensive and organized than most of the resources I’ve found online.
The course is very inexpensive and comprehensive course on the art of DJing. It focuses on everything from the controller to the crowd. Plus it’s cheaper than a movie night out. If you’re looking for a beginner DJing course to go with your new controller; this will help you start your journey right:
As a DJ, it will be absolutely essential to equip yourself with the best equipment. While some equipment is specifically designed for newbies, the DJ controllers from Pioneer are enormously versatile and truly suitable for anyone. This company is world-renowned. In fact, you probably have owned a Pioneer product at some point or another. If you were impressed with the company’s home audio lineup, you’ll be even more ecstatic with their DJ equipment. Below, you will learn more about the top DJ controller Pioneer products on the market.
Always At The Forefront Of Innovation
Pioneer has been manufacturing DJ controllers since 1994. At that time, the company released the CDJ-500, which was a first of its kind. The product featured a top loading CD player and this helped to push Pioneer DJ into the spotlight. In 2001, the company launched the CDJ-1000. They followed up their previous successes, by launching their first Pioneer DJ controller with a real-time scratch. From that point forward, this company has remained at the forefront of innovation. Every time they launch a new product, the company’s ingenuity is clearly visible.
There is a unique design or the company has ingeniously added a new feature to their product. When you invest in a Pioneer DJ controller, you can guarantee you’re getting the latest features and the most innovative hardware.
Consistent Support
Purchasing a DJ controller from a lesser known company is very risky. You never know how well the company’s customer service will be. This is not a problem with Pioneer. The company is highly regarded for their tremendous customer support. Pioneer consistently delivers topnotch customer support, while also frequently launching software and firmware updates. This ensures that potential glitches are fixed rapidly and that your software always remains up to date. There’s always a risk that the product could have some issues but with Pioneer you’ve got your bases covered.
Suitable For Everyone
While some DJ controllers are only designed for advanced DJs, Pioneer puts a great deal of emphasis onto versatility and accessibility. The company’s products are generally very flexible and capable of accommodating a variety of skill levels. If you’re an intermediate DJ, you shouldn’t have any difficulty finding a Pioneer DJ controller that matches your preferences. However, if you’re new to the hobby, the company will also have something to suit your needs. Regardless of your skill level they’ve got you covered.
The company’s wide range of DJ controllers guarantees that they’ll be able to satisfy DJs of all skill levels.
Durability
Finally, one of the best aspects of Pioneer DJ controllers is the durability. The jog wheels are always solid and will be able to take a great deal of wear and tear, without becoming inoperable. And of course, the knobs and buttons are all manufactured from the highest quality materials. With Pioneer, you can always maintain your peace of mind knowing you’re getting your money’s worth. These products can take a little tough love.
The Best Pioneer Dj Controllers
Low End Pioneer Controllers
Below, you will find a breakdown of the top low end DJ controllers from Pioneer. These products might be affordable, but they’re still suitable for many DJs. In general, they’re best designed for novice DJs and casual hobbyists. Nonetheless, these affordable DJ controllers will make a great learning aid, until you’re ready for an upgrade.
Pioneer DDJWEGO2W DJ Controller
An avid DJ relies on his/her gear to produce unique sounds. Without the right equipment, it would be nearly impossible to create perfection. The Pioneer DDJWEGO2W DJ Controller includes Software Virtual DJ Limited Edition, which will help beginners and veteran DJs mix music with ease. It is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems. However it’s main selling point is being able to be used with an iPad or tablet instead of a laptop; offering more versatility. This is done through Algoriddim’s DJay app. It also allows DJs to listen to a cued deck in their headphones, while the other is playing music unlike other controllers, which require an additional soundcard connection.
The DDJWEGO2W also includes a USB cable and a deck, so you do not need to purchase any additional accessories for functionality. For a fully functioning set you will need a laptop or tablet, and a USB battery pack is suggested to maintain tablet power and deck power throughout longer shows. We also suggest looking into a WeCAi Cable also sold by Pioneer.
Notable Specifications
Includes DJ Limited Edition Software, which is upgradable
Compact and lightweight (weighs less than 4 pounds) design
Plug & Play installation
Built-in illumination modes
Great for mixing and scratching
USB powered for portability and convenience
Overall Assessment
The Pioneer DDJWEGO2W is a high-quality DJ controller that will offer many years of service life. It has a built-in soundcard for extra storage. This feature will also save you a few bucks, since you will not need to purchase an external soundcard. The pulse control feature is great for beginners, it will provide visual prompts, by lighting up the job platters in a variety of colors.
Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-WeGO3-K DJ Controller
It doesn’t matter if you are a professional DJ or just like to dabble here and there, you need the very best equipment that can give you total control over your mixes. The very unique Pro DDJ-WeGO3-K DJ Controller is truly a work of art, because it provides an unlimited amount of musical choices. The controller can be hooked into a variety of different operating systems and ran in conjunction with other DJ software like Spotify or iTunes, which gives users an endless amount of mixing options.
Everyone has to learn to mix and conjure up a beat. This can take years or practice, but with the Pro DDJ-WeGO3-K Pioneer DJ Controller it doesn’t matter if you are a pro or a beginner. In fact, this controller was designed with the novice DJ in mind, because the pulse control lights guide users through their performance and teaches them how to use the controls. However, don’t let that fool you. The controller is packed with tons of advanced features that a more experienced DJ can take advantage of.
Notable Specifications
Available in black or white
Lightweight and compact for portability
Designed for beginners and more advanced DJs
Compatible with Mac, iOS and Windows operating systems
Unlimited amount of musical choices thanks to the DJ app
Overall Assessment
Regardless, of your skill level, the Pro DDJ-WeGO3-K DJ Controller can teach you or keep you entertained for hours. With the unique ability to connect the controller to operating systems and download DJ software, you really can take your mixes to the next level.
Mid Range Pioneer DJ Controllers
The mid-range DJ controllers mentioned below are some of the best on the market. In fact, they’re both a great bargain for their respective price tags. They’re a big step up from the aforementioned models, yet they still will not break the bank. They offer additional features and more functionality, but they may not be suitable for professionals DJs.
Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB2 Portable 2-Channel Controller
Pioneer has been making DJ controllers for a long time now, but they have truly outdone themselves with The DDJ-SB2. To see just what I mean check out my in depth DDJ-SB2 review. While the DDJ-SB2 does support similar features that can be found on the older style controllers, it does come with some new and exciting features, as well. For instance, the controller has now been upgraded with a 4-deck control and easy to access buttons that allow users to switch between different channels with ease.
Another amazing feature that can only be found on the DDJ-SB2 is the trim knob and easy-to-read level meters, which allow DJs to master the input volume with ease. Along with this, the Pad Trans beat effects can actually help any DJ raise their skill level. The USB powered controller comes with its very own built-in soundcard and is compatible with a variety of operating systems.
Notable Specifications
Very portable device that can be taken anywhere
Compatible with a variety of operating systems
Built-in soundcard
4-Deck control with easy to access buttons
Easy-to-read level meters
Pad Tran beat effects can boost your skills
Aluminum jog wheels for longevity
Overall Assessment
With the portable and solid design, the DDJ-SB2 is an ideal device for any DJ on the go. Regardless, if you are a Mac or Windows user you won’t have a problem finding a compatible operating system to mix your beats.
Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller
You can check out my in depth DDJSR review here. Those looking for an outstanding device, which will not drain their bank account, should definitely check out the Pioneer DDJSR Pro. This specific product is equipped with 16 performance pads. They offer an abundance of unique features, including Roll, Slice, Sampler, and Hot Cue. The controller also features a new Pad Plus and an abundance of other new features. Truly, there is very little you cannot do with this controller. It is very versatile and offers all of the features you would expect for a higher-end model. It’s definitely a top Pioneer DJ controller with durable job wheels and numerous easy to use options.
Another great aspect of the Pioneer DDJSR Pro is the fact that it comes with the Serato Software, which many believe to be the best in the industry. The full-version of the software helps to elevate the overall value of this controller, while ensuring the user will be able to push the device to their limits. It should also be known that the jog wheels on this particular device are very durable and perfectly responsive. You can guarantee each and every move you make will be perfectly translated to your computer.
Notable Specifications
Equipped with 16 Performance Pads
New PAD PLUS offers many features
Jog Wheels are large and very durable
Works fluidly with the included Serato software
Crossfader is very smooth and works perfectly
Overall Assessment
Truly, there is a lot to like about the Pioneer DDJSR Pro DJ Controller. The product is superbly made and will most certainly stick around for many years. The available features and effects are plentiful. Whether you’re a beginner or have just started taking your hobby serious, you will be well served by this controller!
Pioneer’s High End DJ Controllers
It should come as no surprise that Pioneer makes many different high end DJ controllers. While these products are very costly, they’ll prove to be well worth their price tags. They’re immaculate, durable, and offer an endless assortment of features and effects. Generally, these products are designed for advanced DJs, but they can be used by anyone with a little patience and practice.
Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 DJ Controller
If you are a professional DJ that performs at live concerts, you will definitely need to add the Pro DJ DDJ-SX2 Pioneer DJ Controller to your equipment list. This controller is designed with the professional in mind, because it is embedded with premium components and features. The user will have full control of the embedded Serato Flip features, driving your mixing skills to the next level. It also has specific buttons that have been designated for the start, record and slot or store functions.
The best benefit of the DDJ-SX2 is it provides DJs with the ability to record cue combinations and replaying them on a loop. In fact, the DJ can create 6 recordings of Hot Cue sequences and play them back at a later date.
Notable Specifications
Embedded with a high-quality jog wheel for more accuracy
MIC input for clear audio output
Needle Search pad allows DJs skip to specific parts of a track
Frequency response – 20Hz – 20kHz
Weight – 12.79 pounds
Supports Mac and Windows operating systems
Includes Serato DJ software
Overall Assessment
All in all, the DDJ-SX2 is definitely an impressive tool. It features aluminum jog wheels, which are very responsive. The native Serato flip will also prove to be a great addition for those that decide to stick with the Serato software. And finally, the controller is DVS upgrade ready. No matter what you wish to achieve, you can rest assured knowing the DDJ-SX2 will be able to help you achieve your goals.
Pioneer Pro DJ DDJ-SZ DJ Professional DJ Controller
If you are a professional DJ, want to get the edge up on your competition, and take your mixing skills to the next level, you need to check out the DDJ-SZ DJ Professional DJ Controller. Of course, you are going to have to pay a bit more for this state of the art controller, but you will see that it is well worth the extra splurge. While the DJ DDJ-SZ is the most portable out of its counterparts it is still packed with tons of features that any professional or amateur DJ can take advantage of.
The DJ DDJ-SZ comes equipped with large aluminum jog wheels, which provide the perfect response while you are scratching. Along with this, the illuminated cue point markers give users total control, without ever having to look down at the laptop. You literally can scratch your heart out.
Notable Specifications
Works flawlessly with the Serato DJ Software
8.1-inch Jog Wheels feels great and work even better
Features 2 USB ports
Equipped with multi-colored Performance Pads
Faders work well and have little resistance
Overall Assessment
The DDJ-SZ is one of the most expensive controllers from Pioneer. Nonetheless, the product will prove to be a great value overall. It is truly leagues above its competitors and will be able to provide you with endless options and the best performance. If you’re serious about taking your hobby to the next level, this is definitely a product that can help you jump over that hurdle.
Conclusion
All in all, the Pioneer DJ controller for sale will undeniably satisfy the mass majority of DJing needs. These devices are suitable for beginners and even masters of the craft. Whether you invest in one of the low end or higher end models, you can rest assured knowing your money will be well spent. The question isn’t whether or not you should buy a DJ controller from Pioneer. With high quality products and top of the line support, the question is which model you should buy.
