The Most Wanted Pioneer DJ Decks In 2023

Pioneer is one of the first brands you’ll come across when searching for the best DJ controller. With an extensive and ever-evolving range, it can be hard to choose the one that is right for you. In this guide, we check out the best Pioneer controllers currently available.

A Closer Look At The DDJ Systems

Let’s dive into the details of the best that Pioneer has to offer. From beginner-friendly options to professional-grade gear.

Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 Review

The Best Pioneer DJ Controller

Specifications

Pros

• Full-Size Jogwheels – The DDJ-FLX10 jogwheels are amazing. Replicating the feel, size, and features of the ever-popular jogwheels on the 2000NXS range of Pioneer gear. These pressure-sensitive jogwheels offer excellent response and feel. The onboard LCD screen delivers vital track info like BPM and waveforms.
• 4 Channels & Stems – Access to 4 channels is a must for a dedicated performing DJ. It allows the layering and preparation of several tracks. If you want to push the boundaries of your DJ skills, this controller also gives you access to Stem controls for additional creative flexibility.
• Professional Layout – This is the closest you’ll get to replicating a full DJ setup in controller form. Considering the dominance of Pioneer in the club scene it offers an easy transition to pro gear. Also, an excellent controller for the working DJ to practice sets at home.
• Expansive FX – Hardware-based effects open up a world of creative options for DJs. 4 sound color effects and 12 Beat FX make up the core. Once you add the suite of effects options included in Rekordbox you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you enjoy layering FX this controller is up to the task.

Cons

• Clunky Mix Point Link Functionality- This new feature aims to free up your hands for other jobs while handling BPM changes. It’s a useful feature but also requires a decent amount of preparation for it to function well..

The Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 offers DJs of all levels everything they need. The jogwheels are excellent and will please scratch DJs that need responsive platters. The layout also places it in the perfect sweet spot for both pros and new DJs. The club-based logical workflow helps new DJs learn while offering veterans a familiar layout.

While it isn’t cheap, it’s the DJ controller Pioneer has set as the flagship piece of gear for both Rekordbox and Serato. And with the addition of Stem controls, it’s one of the most performance-oriented DJ controllers on the market. A well-built controller that builds on the legacy of the outstanding DDJ-1000 and improves on it in every way.

Read our full Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer DDJ REV7 Review

Premium Quality Controller For Scratch DJs

Specifications

Pros

• Outstanding Jogwheels – The motorized jogwheels are fantastic. Perfect for scratching and highly customizable. The addition of onboard screens is also great. Instant information at your fingertips.
• Magvel Fader Pro – In line with the scratch DJ focus, the REV7 features a Magvel Fader Pro considered by some to be among the best faders you can get. Ultra-precise and durable.
• Excellent Layout – If you are a scratch DJ you can’t beat the layout on the REV7. The battle-style mixer section and pitch faders at the top emulate a traditional vinyl setup.
• Solid Build – The component quality and attention to detail are high. This is a rock-solid controller. Highly reliable and dependable. A must for serious scratch DJs.

Cons

• Expensive – The REV7 is not a cheap controller. It is still cheaper than a traditional vinyl setup. But in the controller space, it is among the most expensive available. 

The Pioneer DDJ REV7 is one of the most impressive controllers in the Pioneer lineup. The emphasis and focus towards scratch DJs are evident throughout. From the layout to the amazing jogwheels it is the best controller for DJs that want to focus on scratching.

Plenty of performance pad features along with excellent FX and paddles cement it as a favorite. If you want the very best scratching experience on a controller the REV7 is the best option available today.

Read our full Pioneer DDJ-REV7 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer XDJ RX3 Review

Outstanding DJ Controller With A Screen

Specifications

Pros

• Central Screen – The main feature that instantly catches your eyes is the gorgeous full-color 10.1-inch screen. Parallel waveforms along with other key information allow you to focus on your controller. Easy browsing with touch support and a large dedicated knob.
• Excellent Layout – Spacious and packed with features. The RX3 imitates the layout of Pioneer’s pro-level gear. For experienced DJs wanting a rig to use in their studio, this is a great option.
• Plenty of Performance Options – The RX3 has taken a step beyond the previous RX2 with more performance pad modes.
• Software Flexibility – The RX3 is a stand-alone unit or you can connect it to your laptop. You can use Rekordbox or Serato giving you maximum choice.

Cons

• Small Jogwheels – The RX3 retains smaller jogwheels like the RX2. While some onboard screens are a nice addition these jogwheels still feel a little too small.

The XDJ RX3 is a big improvement from the previous stand-alone controller from Pioneer. Improved performance capabilities add to what was already a popular line of controllers. The big screen is fantastic and instantly improves workflow. The standardized Pioneer layout also makes it a great choice for experienced pros and DJs aspiring to play in clubs.

It’s a good option for a range of DJs that want to embed the Pioneer workflow.

Read our full Pioneer XDJ RX3 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer DJ OPUS-QUAD Review

Premium Standalone Option

Specifications

Pros

• Comprehensive Standalone – The OPUS-QUAD sets a new bar for Pioneer standalone controllers with access to all 4 channels without the need for a laptop. It also has all the connectivity options you would expect from a premium DJ controller.
• Screens Galore – Large central touchscreen that is highly responsive is just the beginning. Extra screens above each deck expand the amount of information you’ll be able to access at a glance.
• Exceptional Design – The OPUS-QUAD offers an innovative design mentality that impacts the whole controller. Stylish and sophisticated without compromising on features. A professional and attractive-looking controller that oozes class.
• Loop Encoder – For the first time, Pioneer has integrated a loop encoder which will appeal to DJs that are familiar with controlling loops with an encoder. Another example of Pioneer incorporating never before seen features on Pioneer controllers.

Cons

• Hefty Price Tag – The extensive screens and extensive functionality and connectivity comes with a very high price tag. Look elsewhere if you want the best bang for your buck. 

The Pioneer OPUS-QUAD is the most unique controller Pioneer has ever released. Its unique design sets it apart as the most stylish offering in its line-up. But it’s not all about looks. This controller also features extensive performance features, full standalone capability, and all the connections you’ll ever need. It does come in at an eye-watering price, but there is no denying it is a quality Pioneer DJ controller.

Read our full Pioneer DJ OPUS-QUAD review for more detailed information.

Pioneer DDJ SR2 Review

Feature-Rich 2 Channel Controller

Specifications

Pros

• Excellent Connection Options – The SR2 is a mid-tier controller that packs a heap of connection options. This is ideal for mobile DJs that need the flexibility to handle different sound systems.
• Mobile DJ Orientated – Comfortable in both size and weight. It’s easy to transport this controller to gigs. Added flexibility to have it powered by USB adds further options to tailor your mobile rig to your requirements.
• Great Serato Implementation – This controller works fantastic with Serato. It offers a large amount of onboard access to key Serato features. Experienced Serato users will enjoy spending less time looking at the laptop.
• Good Price – The price point for the SR2 sits in that sweet spot between entry-level gear and pro gear. An excellent choice for new DJs looking to upgrade. Great for mobile DJs searching for an affordable controller. Also good for pro DJs needing a controller to use at home that offers a wide feature set.

Cons

• Touchstrips – The touchstrips are a great feature but the placement is a little hazardous. If you like to play with the FX you may accidentally touch the strips. While not something to worry about if you are careful it’s worth pointing out. Thankfully you can turn the touchstrips off if this becomes an issue for you. 

The Pioneer DDJ SR2 offers intermediate DJs an excellent workhorse controller. Packed with a range of features it’s capable of handling the needs of most DJs. But, it isn’t a perfect controller with some odd design choices like the small pitch faders and awkward touchstrips placement. If you look beyond that it’s a dependable and rugged gig controller that ticks a lot of boxes.

Read our full Pioneer DDJ SR2 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer XDJ XZ Review

Pro Quality Pioneer Controller

Specifications

Pros

• Excellent Connections – A large selection of quality connection options. Two master outputs and balanced booth output along with a send output. Line In options for external gear and two high-quality mic inputs. Everything a pro DJ controller needs.
• Full-Color Screen – The 7-inch screen offers a central location with easily viewable information including stacked waveforms. Responsiveness is good and it does feature touch controls. Unfortunately, it does lack the finesse of modern touchscreen technology.
• Fantastic Jog Wheels – Large full-size jog wheels that are a joy to use. In-built screens for extra info and the ability to adjust jog tension. They feel just like the jog wheels on Pioneer club gear.
• Pro Level Mixer – Continuing the club gear standard the mixer section is solid. Excellent range of Beat and Sound Color FX. If you are used to pro DJ you’ll love how closely this unit resembles club setups.

Cons

• 2 Channel USB – While the XDJ XZ offers 4 channel control you’ll be limited to just 2 channels when using it as a standalone controller with USB inputs.

The Pioneer XDJ XZ is a fully-featured pro-level DJ controller from Pioneer. A rugged and durable controller that is an excellent alternative to running a full Pioneer club setup. The screen is functional but possibly starting to show its age. Despite this, it is one of the best Pioneer controllers currently available.

While it is an expensive piece of gear you’ll be hard-pressed to find a controller that mimics club gear this closely.

Read our full Pioneer DJ XDJ-XZ review for more detailed information.

Pioneer XDJ RR Review

Excellent Value Rekordbox DJ Controller

Specifications

Pros

• 7-Inch Screen – The large central screen provides you with visual feedback without the need for a laptop. It’s bright and clear with an easy-to-navigate interface.
• Solid Layout – The layout tries to stick as close as possible to the layout of pro Pioneer gear. It offers the feel of two CDJs and a mixer in a compact and lightweight form factor.
• Reasonable Price Point – This option from Pioneer offers great value for a DJ controller with a screen. An excellent entry point to the Pioneer ecosystem if you want to have an onboard screen.
• Two USB Ports – You’ll have access to two USB ports for loading up your music and recording your set directly to a USB drive. A handy track split function is also accessible for your recordings.

Cons

• Not Touch Capable – Unlike some more modern DJ controllers with screens the XDJ RR doesn’t feature touch controls. Not a dealbreaker but certainly is older technology. 

The Pioneer XDJ RR offers a solid entry point into the Pioneer line-up of screen-based controllers. It has a solid selection of features, including a capable 7-inch central screen. But it does lack some of the extras found on more expensive controllers. With only 4 pads and a limited selection of FX, some DJs might be looking for more.

While it does lack some extras, it still provides all the fundamentals in a convenient transport-friendly frame. A solid choice for mobile DJs that don’t want to spend the big bucks on higher-end Pioneer gear.

Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 Review

Feature-Rich Controller For Beginners

Specifications

Pros

• Ideal Starting Point – The DDJ-FLX4 inherits many of the characteristics of higher-end Pioneer gear while having a low price. This is the controller for you if you want to learn the Pioneer workflow without spending a lot.
• Great FX Features – The Smart CFX gives you access to a range of innovative FX to utilize in your sets. The Smart Fader feature also makes transitioning between genres easier. It also has a vast range of other FX options.
• Compact And Portable – This controller is lightweight and doesn’t have a big footprint. Ideal for smaller tables or to take around to a friend’s house and throw a party.
• Dependable Quality – Despite the low price and plastic build, the DDJ-FLX4 is a robust and dependable controller with good component quality.

Cons

• Minimal Outputs – Only a solitary RCA output does restrict your options. No balanced output and it doesn’t feature a Booth output either.

The DDJ-FLX4 is the premier beginner controller from Pioneer. It unlocks Rekordbox and is also compatible with Serato DJ, giving you maximum flexibility. Excellent layout and professional design add to the appeal, as do the innovative FX features. An excellent way to get started in the Pioneer ecosystem.

Read our full Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer DDJ REV1 Review

Great Choice For Beginner Scratch DJs

Specifications

Pros

• Large Jogwheels – The REV1 offers new and experienced DJs large jogwheels. These are a great entry point to scratch DJing.
• 4 Channel Option – Unlike the DDJ 400, this entry-level controller does allow you to access up to 4 channels via deck buttons. For new DJs looking to experiment this is a bonus.
• Battle Style Layout – This type of layout is common for scratch DJs. For new DJs, this is the first time an entry-level controller has offered this type of layout.
• Affordable Price Point – Previously new DJs that wanted to focus on scratching would be left with expensive options. This affordable controller makes getting into scratch DJing much easier.

Cons

• Basic Connectivity – As is often the case with beginner controllers the available inputs and outputs are limited. No booth or balanced output might be a dealbreaker for some.

The Pioneer DDJ REV1 is one of the best entry-level controllers for DJs wanting to scratch. The battle-style layout and large jogwheels are exactly what you need. It also is a great entry point to Serato. While you’ll need to upgrade to a full license to unlock more features it still offers good value for those on a budget.

Read our full Pioneer DDJ-REV1 review for more detailed information.

Pioneer DDJ FLX6-GT Review

Innovative 4 Channel DJ Gear

Specifications

Pros

• New Merge FX – An innovative feature that allows you to choose from a range of pre-built transition FX. Excellent for executing your favorite FX combos or salvaging a poor mix.
• 4 Channels – One of the first upgrades DJs seek is 4 channels. The FLX6-GT gives intermediate DJs a good upgrade point to explore 4-channel mixing.
• Reasonable Price – Sitting comfortably in the middle of the Pioneer lineup, the FLX6-GT is a natural progression point. But with that price comes a reduction in component quality and connection options.
• Familiar Layout – Like all modern Pioneer controllers, the FLX6 retains a logical and familiar layout. Whether you are coming from beginner or pro gear, you’ll feel right at home.

Cons

• Jog Cutter – Pioneer continues to try and make scratching an automated affair. The Jog Cutter mode doesn’t sound great and confusing for beginners. You’ll be better off learning traditional basic scratches.

The Pioneer DDJ FLX6-GT is an interesting controller that could have been amazing. Access to 4 channels is a big bonus, and the new Merge FX feature offers excellent customization options. While a bit gimmicky, it is a lot of fun to play around with. Where it falls short is build quality and connection options.

This controller is ideal for the bedroom DJ that wants to move up to a Pioneer 4 channel controller without committing to the more expensive options.

Our Expert Buying Guide

There are several things to consider when looking at Pioneer controllers. Details on FX, mixer, and jogwheels can vary between models. But, there are some universal elements to Pioneer and their range of DJ gear that is worth exploring.

Trusted Brand

Pioneer has a long history of producing high-quality DJ gear. When looking for DJ gear the brand name does matter. A brand like Pioneer has the experience and that gives DJs a level of security that some brands can’t offer. If you want to learn more about how Pioneer has shaped the DJ industry you can check out their series of videos celebrating 20 years of Pioneer DJ.

Pioneer also has a good reputation for build quality. They use high-quality parts on the controllers they offer. There is a difference between entry-level gear and more high-end Pioneer controllers. But, they all aim to deliver the most robust controller within that price range.

Due to the prevalence of Pioneer gear and the excellent build quality, the aftermarket value of Pioneer gear is also strong. If you do end up upgrading your gear you’ll likely be able to get a reasonable amount for your original gear.

No company is perfect but when you buy Pioneer gear you know what you are getting. High-quality gear from a team that has years of experience. That level of comfort is hard to put a price on.

Pioneer Ecosystem

One of the main benefits of buying Pioneer DJ equipment is the overarching ecosystem of Pioneer DJ systems. In recent years they have continued to refine their controller and pro-level gear options. In this process, they have standardized the layout of their gear for all levels including the Pioneer DDJ controllers.

This change is one that I’m very happy to see. It’s easy to recommend an entry-level Pioneer controller. It’s then natural for a new DJ to move onto more advanced gear without having to completely overhaul their workflow. As you continue to move up the Pioneer line you’ll feel at home.

The other benefit of this is that it works in reverse as well. Experienced DJs can pick up a controller for their studio as opposed to a full club level setup. Smaller portable controllers give experienced DJs the core tools to prepare and plan mixes. All without dedicating mammoth amounts of money and space.

DJ Software

With the release of Rekordbox DJ Pioneer threw its hat into the ring for dedicated DJ software. In the past, Serato or Native Instruments Traktor software was the main choice for DJs. While other DJ software exists it was these pieces of software you’d most likely come across in a club environment.

Rekordbox DJ has opened up DJs to have an alternative. One that’s crafted for even tighter integration with Pioneer DJ gear. The software is powerful, full-featured, and continues to receive regular updates. Its origins as a music library management tool also make it easy to prepare and manage your music collection.

While I’m a big fan of both Serato and Traktor I’m glad to see Rekordbox doing well. Luckily, the relationship between Pioneer and Serato remains strong. The result has been a new generation of controllers that offer DJs the greatest choice in both hardware and software. In my eyes the more choice the better.

The Club Equipment Standard

If you’ve ever been in a DJ booth at a club or festival you’ll likely have seen Pioneer DJ decks. This is often why selecting a Pioneer controller is a good choice if you want to become a pro-DJ.

It’s a common sight to see Pioneer DJ gear in a professional setting.

The skills are universal but not all DJ equipment is the same. It’s a lot easier to move up to more advanced gear if you stick to the same manufacturer. Not every DJ can afford to replicate a pro-level setup so a controller is also the most affordable option.

If you do start to DJ professionally you may also come across older Pioneer setups. The full Pioneer setup is expensive and not all clubs want to update gear that is often unseen by the punters. Keep this in mind as well. While things have evolved the core layout tends to roughly remain the same.

Preparation is a key part of success so it’s worth asking the promoter or club owner what gear they have. This way you can compare to your current setup and prepared for any key differences. Sticking to one of the most popular brands of DJ gear will minimize how much of a difference there will be.

That’s not to say you can’t get a different controller. Many other manufacturers produce amazing controllers. But, it is something to be mindful of since you’ll likely be seeing that Pioneer logo sooner or later in your DJ career.

FAQ

What Pioneer DJ Controller For Beginners?

For new DJs, the Pioneer DDJ-FLX4 is a perfect choice. Comprehensive features, innovative FX tools, high build quality, and an affordable price make it the best beginner controller from Pioneer.

Which One Should You Buy?

Pioneer continues to provide DJs with a wealth of options when it comes to controllers. Every DJ wants a solid, reliable, and capable controller. It’s because of this that the Pioneer DDJ-FLX10 is the best Pioneer controller currently available. It’s packed with features and a layout that makes sense for the modern professional DJ.

Of all the DJ controllers Pioneer has released, it’s the most impressive to date. With the addition of Stem controls and expanded support for Serato as well it stands head and shoulders above the other Pioneer controllers on the market. A unit that should be at the top of your list of options for a Pioneer controller.

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