Pioneer DJ is the leading brand in the market for DJ consoles, and you can most likely find their flagship model in most nightclubs as their standard setup, as well as professional DJs almost always have it on their rider.

Most of Pioneer's consoles are paired with Rekordbox DJ software. Rekordbox is a masterful piece of DJ software developed by Pioneer itself. The program saves your playlists and everything you've mixed, so you can take it with you to a gig or studio without any problems.

Here at SoundStoreXL, we have selected 3 DJ consoles that fit all budgets but still maintain high quality, which is obvious when Pioneer has produced it

Pioneer XDJ-XZ

The highly acclaimed and praised Pioneer XDJ-XZ all-in-one system, which works with rekordbox DJ and Serato DJ Pro, is one of the flagship products from Pioneer. The fully integrated system includes a 7’’ touch screen, full-sized jog wheels, top-quality sound, and Pro DJ Link. The XDJ-XZ is not just an ordinary controller - it is the first all-in-one DJ system to integrate with Pro DJ Link, providing a seamless transition to the external equipment you connect. Let's take a closer look at the design

Design

The 7’’ screen provides you with all the information you need while playing. Each of the two full-sized jog wheels has a color display in the middle of each wheel, providing optimal information such as waveforms, hot cues, BPM, and more. The "players" include 16 multi-colored performance pads, 8 on each, as well as 3 USB inputs and many options for input and output.

As a unit that can be placed in the center of any setup, the XDJ-XZ works incredibly well. Channels 3 and 4 can both switch between external inputs, line, phono, or input from devices such as a phone or tablet. Additionally, there is an AUX input that can switch between either line or a portable device. The entire design feels very familiar if you have previously used Pioneer NXS2 gear, making it very intuitive to transition to an XDJ-XZ from an NXS2 setup. The 7” touch screen in the middle works much better than switching focus between two separate screens on different decks, as you would with regular CDJs, and it's incredibly easy to line up tracks and cue points.

The screen could be larger, higher resolution, and generally more high-tech, similar to the screens we are used to on phones and tablets, especially since it is one of the most important elements on the console. However, it still works very well!

The Pioneer XDJ-XZ also offers a plethora of cool sound effects, just like on the club-standard DJM-900 mixer. See the list of Beat FX here:

Performance pads

The 8 performance pads under each jogwheel are also fantastic. If you have tried using professional Pioneer equipment, you will undoubtedly feel at home. Four primary pad modes can be used: Hot Cue, Beat Loop, Slip Loop, and Beat Jump. These are by far the most commonly used performance pad modes.

You also have an additional bank of modes to choose from. Activating this is done via the Shift key. However, there is no way to visually see what these pad modes are set to. This depends on your software settings. Considering the compatibility between Rekordbox and Serato, it's not surprising that there is no written guidance on the controller. Both software platforms offer different options. But once set up, you will easily be able to activate and manage multiple modes. The distance between the buttons is relatively large, making it easy to hit the right one in demanding situations

Advantages:

• 7” full-color LCD screen
• All-in-one DJ system with 2 x jog wheels & mixer section
• Pro DJ Link and excellent USB connectivity options

Pioneer DDJ-1000

Pioneer DDJ-1000 is the latest in their line of 4-channel controllers, where rekordbox DJ benefits from Pioneer's CDJ players and their popular mixers. First and foremost, you quickly notice that the jog wheels are full-size and touch-sensitive, as you would experience on a CDJ-3000, providing a pro feel. However, the mixer section in the middle is a narrower version of the brand's popular DJM-900, but with 4 cool new Beat FX: ENIGMA JET, MOBIUS (SAW), MOBIUS (TRIANGLE), and LOW CUT ECHO

On the software side, rekordbox DJ lacks the history and reputation of Serato DJ or Traktor, but with this controller, you still get an excellent mixing machine. The controller's music collection is also fully compatible with Pioneer DJ's industry-standard CDJs

Jogwheels

The true star of this controller is its excellent jog wheels. They are designed full-size and are also mechanical. The resistance can even be adjusted to your liking. The shiny top plate provides better grip and offers an excellent scratching experience. You can also change jog wheel mode depending on your DJ style. It's also easy to switch between channels with the built-in deck switchers.

Each jog wheel contains a full-color screen. This screen displays important information about the music such as BPM, track length, and Key. It also shows waveforms for the current track including any cue points you have set. This allows you to easily see when the music is about to change character. That way, you're not forced to stare down at your laptop. Active loops are also displayed on the screens

Connectivity Options

The Pioneer DDJ-1000 offers DJs a solid array of connectivity options.

On the rear panel, there are two Master output options. Here, you can connect both XLR and RCA cables. Additionally, there's a balanced TRS booth output. Considering that speakers often have various connection options, this controller offers ample opportunity to connect your other gear.

There's also the option to connect up to 4 RCA line-ins. This allows for the connection of various external hardware. Activating these is easy with the built-in line switch control on each channel. If you have a specific setup in mind, the DDJ-1000 will likely accommodate it.

Two USB connections are also available. You can connect two laptops for seamless DJ transitions. This works great for back-to-back performances as well.

Two balanced microphone inputs give you the flexibility to handle both TRS and XLR microphones.

On the front, you have both a 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch headphone jack. If you're upgrading from a budget controller, you'll appreciate being able to plug and play without extra adapters

Quality and Design

Pioneer hasn't held back with the DDJ-1000. It's a solid controller suitable for regular use.

The jog wheels are extremely durable and feel great to use. All knobs and faders feel fantastic and very stable. This is especially important if you're an aggressive scratch DJ or love to get hands-on with the controls!

The upgraded "Magvel" crossfader is also a nice addition to the controller. This further enhances the feeling of working with premium gear.

The central mixer and the top jog wheels tend to attract fingerprints, so if you're a bit OCD about your equipment, you'll want to have some microfiber cloths handy to clean them between your playing sessions.

The design is fantastic. Pioneer has managed to transform a club setup into a unified controller. Everything is where you expect it to be. Excellent use of colors on the pads adds some vibrancy to an otherwise all-black controller.

Overall, we have here a really nice controller that is built well

Advantages:

• 4 new FX functions
• DJ controller with all the best features from the popular CDJ and DJM NXS2
• Includes rekordbox DJ's new Related Tracks feature

DDJ-400

Pioneer DDJ-400 (now upgraded to Pioneer DJ FLX-4) offers a range of great tools for any DJ looking to get started in the discipline. The controller serves as one of the most natural transitions to more professional gear. Let's take a closer look at what the controller can do and whether it's a good controller for beginners.

Features

Let's delve into the details of the Pioneer DDJ-400 and see what it offers both beginners and more experienced DJs.

Mixer Section

While the DDJ-400 is a fantastic controller, it's not flawless. One area that could be improved is the mixer section. It offers all the basic functions you would expect in a controller.

You'll find a 3-band EQ and a dedicated filter, as well as a trim knob for each channel. This gives you full control over each channel and the ability to properly equalize your mixes and transitions. Individual channel meters also allow you to keep an eye on your levels and avoid hitting the dreaded red zone. Two-channel faders and a crossfader are located at the bottom.

A wide range of FX options are also available on the central mixer, which we'll discuss later in this guide.

Software

This DJ controller comes with a full license for the rekordbox DJ software. Many other controllers made for different DJ software often only come with an intro or trial version. Keep this in mind when comparing the DDJ-400 with other controllers.

Rekordbox DJ is solid and reliable. Ongoing updates from Pioneer also show that they will support the software and you as a DJ in the long term, and they greatly listen to their customers' opinions and ideas for the products

Jogwheels

For scratch enthusiasts, the jogwheels are of decent size, especially for a controller of this size.

The smooth finish on the surface is complemented by a rubberized edge. Additionally, they have a good amount of weight and resistance and don't feel cheap. While they may not be as flashy as the larger jogwheels found on more expensive gear, you can still scratch with them just fine.

Pitch Faders

Another significant improvement is the extended pitch faders. Compact entry-level controllers often come with small pitch faders, making beatmatching by ear more challenging. Having longer pitch faders allows for more precise adjustments of the tempo. Having this available makes it easier for new DJs to learn classic beatmatching using their ears.

Performance Pads

8 rubber pads are located on both decks. This is another notable change from previous Pioneer entry-level controllers, which had slightly larger pads. Although it's not a significant difference, it's still worth mentioning. Fortunately, the pads still feel great to use.

These performance pads are used to set hot cues, activate pad FX, trigger Beat Loop or Beat Jump, as well as Key Shift and sampler functions. Plenty of creative possibilities give you more room to explore and expand your DJ skills once you've mastered the basics

Dimensions

The Pioneer DDJ-400 is a compact controller. It's ideal for new DJs who don't want a controller that will dominate their home studio. The small size and light weight make it extremely easy to transport, whether you're playing gigs or heading to a friend's place. You can even get a small smart bag for it to make it even easier to carry around.

FX Control

Many entry-level controllers have moved the effects controls to the top of the decks. This can make it feel a bit unnatural and detached from the rest of the controller. The Pioneer DDJ-400 places these functions centrally on the mixer for easier access. This makes it more natural when you're in the middle of a transition and want to add some extra FX.

Beat FX is also available, applying effects in time with your tracks. This adds effects to sound more harmonious and natural for more professional mixes. There are also a variety of sound color FX available for even more creative possibilities.

Loop Control

The looping function has been revamped compared to previous Pioneer entry-level controllers. It now has controls that are more in line with CDJ and XDJ decks. You can set your saved loops to instantly jump back to them on each track, as well as adjust loops on the fly.

There's also the option to quickly create an automatic 4-bar loop. You can also halve or double your loop. This makes it easier to master looping and then apply those skills to more advanced Pioneer equipment later on

Connectivity

The DDJ-400 connects to your laptop or computer via USB. A headphone jack is located on the front of the controller for your DJ headphones. This allows for optimal cue monitoring and preparation of the next track. The built-in sound card allows you to play the master directly from your computer, or you can connect your active studio monitors.

A master RCA out and an unbalanced microphone input are the only other connectivity options available on the back of the controller.

A massive amount of connectivity options isn't expected in a controller at this level. However, it's something to consider if you have an existing audio system you want to connect. Having only one RCA out does limit your options slightly.

Quality and Design

For an entry-level controller, it is well-built. However, don't expect super-premium materials at this price point. The majority of the controller is still made of plastic, but it doesn't feel cheap, unlike many other controllers in this class.

The controller is still lightweight enough for easy transport to a friend's house. It's recommended that you invest in a flight case or bag if you plan to take it out of the home regularly.

In terms of design, it's hard to fault Pioneer. In many ways, Pioneer's entry-level controllers have evolved in the right direction. The DDJ-400 is no different and is now even better integrated into the layout alongside its more expensive siblings.

Pioneer has drawn inspiration from their flagship NSX2 setup and attempted to deliver the same layout in a compact package. This makes it easier to transition to more advanced equipment later on. Transitioning to a more advanced DJ setup can be daunting, so anything that facilitates this transition is a huge advantage

Built-in Self-Study

Another new feature in the DDJ-400 is a dedicated self-study mode. This feature covers the basics of connecting your gear and the controller's built-in functions. The program also guides you through some basic DJ skills to give you a good foundation. While it's not a fantastic all-in-one crash course in DJing, it's a good start. Learning about your controller and the basics is the first learning curve every beginner DJ needs to tackle. Having a little help for new DJs to overcome the initial steps is a step in the right direction.

Why Buy a Beginner Controller?

DJ equipment can be expensive, which is why the development of the beginner controller was so important. It has now opened doors for anyone with a passion for DJing to get started.

Choosing an entry-level controller can be quite challenging. I remember when I bought my first controller - there weren't many options available for beginners. Nowadays, there is a much wider range of entry-level controllers available. While it's great to see so many options, not all are created equal.

Entry-level controllers serve many purposes. They are more compact, making them an excellent choice if you don't have much space. It's also more relevant if you plan to be a hobby bedroom DJ. Even professional DJs like to use entry-level controllers as backups to their regular DJ equipment.

These controllers should have all the basic features you need as a DJ. They won't have all the extra features of more expensive controllers. This is both good and bad. It's great for new DJs because it's less daunting to learn the available features and functions. Limiting distractions while learning to DJ can also help strengthen your basic skills. On the negative side of the spectrum, you'll start to feel limited as you become a skilled DJ.

Fortunately, it doesn't mean that when you buy new DJ equipment, you'll be a worse DJ. I've heard some fantastic mixes performed on entry-level controllers. I've also heard some absolute disasters performed on expensive gear!

The other thing to remember is which brand of controller you're buying. There are several "toy" DJ controllers out there claiming to be DJ equipment when they're glorified Hi-Fi systems. They offer very basic features and are not what you want to use when learning DJing.

I recommend sticking to quality controllers from brands that have a long history in the DJ world. These controllers are the pathway to more professional equipment that also has all the essential features you need to learn to become a good DJ

Advantages:

• Professional layout
• Rekordbox DJ software
• Long pitch fader
• Expansive FX
• Tutorial function
• Easy to transport

We hope you now have a better understanding of which DJ controller suits your needs. If you're completely new to the field and have an interest in DJing, the Pioneer DDJ-400 is ideal for starting out and learning the basics. Later on, you can choose to upgrade to a slightly larger controller like the DDJ-1000, or if you want the full setup, the Pioneer XDJ-XZ, where you truly get one of the best DJ controllers on the market.

Happy DJing!