Studio monitors are an excellent choice for a home studio, but their flat sound can often feel underwhelming if you use them to practice DJ sessions at home. This is where Pioneer DJ’s VM series comes into the equation.
The Pioneer DJ DM-70 can serve double duty in a home studio setting, with tuning options to help sculpt the sound for both studio work and DJ practice sessions.
We have spent years documenting and testing a wide range of studio monitors. From entry-level choices to top-shelf pro studio gear, we’ve seen it all and developed a detailed testing process to assess every monitor that crosses our desks.
However, every studio space is different, and every producer has different needs and preferences. That is why we also consult with industry veterans to ensure we get the complete picture on every studio monitor we review. With that said, let’s check out the VM-70 and see how it stacks up in a crowded market.
Pioneer DJ VM-70
Overall Rating (8/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
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The Pioneer DJ VM-70 sits comfortably in the middle of the VM series, a more meaty choice over the VM-50 and a slightly more compact choice to the larger VM-80. However, it’s far from the neglected middle child, with a lot going for it. Let’s check it out.
Sound Quality
If you had asked me years ago about my thoughts on Pioneer DJ studio monitors, I would have mentioned that while they were okay for DJ practice sessions, they were not ideal for studio work. Thankfully, a lot has changed, and the VM series is an excellent example of this evolution.
The VM-70 offers excellent sound quality that can be easily adapted to different applications thanks to onboard tuning controls.
The Pioneer DJ VM series delivers versatile sound.
At its most basic, the VM-70 features a robust and full-bodied low-end that is well-balanced without too much over exaggeration, making it a viable choice for studio work. But if you do want to crank up the low end, the VM-70 is up to the task. It is rich and meaty with ample punch.
The mid-range is also excellent, with fantastic definition, especially for electronic elements. However, even more traditional instrumental compositions and vocal performances translate well.
The top end is equally well-defined with a slight boost—not enough to make the overall sound profile unbalanced but enough to add shimmer and sparkle to the top end. I often find studio monitors to be a little sharp and brittle in the top end, but that is not the case here.
The aramid fibers help deliver tight performance for the low frequency driver.
The dispersion is also excellent. These are still near-field, but for a DJ session at home, they do an adequate job of filling the space with sound so that even if you move around a bit, you don’t experience excessive null points.
It’s a huge step forward overall for Pioneer DJ. Much like when I reviewed the VM-50, this is among the first times I can comfortably recommend a Pioneer DJ studio monitor for studio work and DJing sessions. At this price point, it performs well beyond expectations.
Build Quality
The build quality of the Pioneer DJ VM-70 is another notable highlight. I’ve used Pioneer DJ gear for years and have always held the brand up to a high standard, and in each instance, the longevity on offer was superb.
This high standard is on full display with the VM-70. The enclosure features an MDF composite with a vinyl wrap. It’s durable and resistant to scuffing without a hint of sloppiness in the finish.
Excellent build quality from a trusted brand.
The standout element, however, is the 4 mm thick rigid aluminum front baffle, which not only adds durability but also helps suppress resonance and vibrations. Plus, the finish looks slick and modern.
Add to this high-quality connection points and dependable switches and dials at the monitor’s rear, and you have a reliable and high-quality package from the leaders in professional DJ gear.
Specifications
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 is no slouch in the specifications department either. Powering the unit is a highly efficient Class D amplifier with a bi-amplified design. A total of 100 Watts of power is on offer, with 70 Watts for the Low-Frequency Driver and 30 Watts for the High-Frequency Driver.
Speaking of the drivers, the VM-70 features a 6.5-inch aramid fiber woofer cone and a 1-inch silk soft dome tweeter. Aramid fibers offer high tensile strength while retaining a low weight, making them a solid option for a woofer cone.
High volume output.
The frequency range of 37Hz-36kHz highlights the broad range on offer, and performance was smooth throughout the range with minimal distortion, even at higher volume levels.
Speaking of volume levels, the high Max SPL of 112dB is perfect for DJs who like to push the volume up during their DJ practice sessions while offering ample headroom for studio applications.
Tuning Options
One of the reasons why the new VM series is so versatile is the flexible controls available to sculpt the sound to different applications. On the monitor’s rear, you’ll have access to two DSP control knobs.
The first gives you control over the low-frequency response with four options. Room 1 features a substantially cut-to-low-frequency response, which can be helpful in tighter studio spaces where the monitor is close to a wall. Option 2 features a flat response, while Option 3 provides a nominal bump. Finally, Option 4 boosts the low end for a Club Bass feeling.
Flexible tuning controls.
The high-frequency knob also offers four options, with Room 1 offering a high-frequency cut while Option 2 is Flat. Option 3 provides a subtle and well-controlled boost, while Option 4 offers ramps up the top end.
I tested all options in various combinations, and the results were impressive. Each was distinct and made a notable difference in output. My bass-loving heart especially enjoyed the Club Bass boost for my DJ sessions.
High flexibility and effective control in easy-to-use configurations. Some might prefer more granular controls, but for beginners, this straightforward approach is ideal.
Design
Pioneer DJ gear always looks like the business, and the VM series is a sterling example of this. Its fresh and modern design catches the eye without resorting to tacky gimmicks.
The angular front baffle gives the unit a unique appearance, and the difference in finishes gives the monitor a stylish and evocative edge over many other monitors.
If I had to offer a complaint, the shiny aluminum baffle does attract fingerprints. Glossy plastic is far worse, but it is still noticeable here.
The front baffle is attractive and functional but does attract fingerprints.
The choice to go with a rear-facing port might prove to be a little problematic in some spaces, but the tuning controls can mitigate bass buildup issues. Plus, the ribbed design of the “Vortex Bass Accelerator” does assist with airflow for smoother and punchier bass.
Another highlight is the auto standby mode. I generally dislike standby modes, so I was very pleased to see that the Pioneer DJ VM-70 allows you to switch this feature off entirely.
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 is at the cutting edge of Pioneer’s design philosophy. Smart and intelligent technical design decisions marry perfectly with modern, attractive aesthetic design.
Dimensions
As expected, the Pioneer DJ VM-70 is a large studio monitor. It features a 6.5-inch cone, and to make the most of the bass port, the unit is rather deep. That said, it falls within the same ballpark as other monitors in this size bracket.
Large monitor that requires adequate space.
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 is also relatively hefty at 16.98 lbs. (7.7 kg). This gives the studio monitor ample stability without feeling overly bulky, a good balance that adds to its premium feel.
Inputs
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 keeps things simple in the connection department. At the monitor’s rear, you’ll have access to a balanced combo jack that supports XLR and TRS, along with an unbalanced RCA connection. These are just the bare essentials, but I wouldn’t expect more from a monitor in this product category.
Standard studio monitor connections.
If you would like to have more options, such as Bluetooth, headphone connections, or an AUX In, you’ll need to explore alternatives like Pioneer DJ’s DM series, which offers these more consumer-focused features.
Value
Pioneer DJ isn’t exactly known as a budget brand. Its range of DJ gear is often among the most expensive options in each product grouping. Still, the VM series surprisingly bucks this trend and is relatively approachable compared to some of the competition.
You can buy cheaper monitors, but the balance between price and performance is exceptionally strong here. When factoring in the high build quality, I have nothing to complain about regarding the value offering of the VM series.
Be A Good Neighbor
Studio monitors that offer a solid punch, like the Pioneer DJ VM-70, are fantastic for fun and engaging practice sets in your home studio. But just because you are having a great time and think the current song you are playing is the best doesn’t mean other people will agree!
DJing loud is a fun experience, but you should always be aware of any local sound laws and exercise some common sense so that you don’t bother your neighbors.
Be mindful of your volume levels when DJing at home.
There are many things you can do to help mitigate sound travel, but the simplest way is to turn down your speakers. If you do want to practice loud, try to aim for a short set at an appropriate time and avoid playing loud practice sessions frequently.
But when you can turn it up, make sure your studio monitors are up to the challenge. The last thing anyone wants is a loud, distorted wall of sound that sounds like garbage.
Alternatives
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 is an impressive multipurpose studio monitor, but it is far from the only option. Below, I explore some other choices worth considering before handing over your hard-earned money.
KRK GOAUX4
If you are a traveling DJ, you’ll know the difficulties that arise when you want to work on new productions or edits while on the road. Sometimes, headphones just don’t cut it. In this instance, the travel-friendly GOAUX4 is an excellent choice.
- Well-defined and punchy sound in a compact format.
- High build quality and excellent included accessories.
- It’s not ideal for home DJ sessions due to its lower output.
PreSonus Eris Studio 8
For those who would prefer a forward-facing port, the PreSonus Eris Studio 8 is a worthy alternative. It offers excellent sound quality while retaining an approachable price point.
- Balanced output that is ideal for serious studio work.
- Large sweet spot and effective tuning controls.
- Doesn’t offer dedicated low-frequency controls.
KRK Rokit 8 G5
The last option I want to highlight is the impressive Rokit 8 G5 from KRK. This highly flexible front-ported 8-inch monitor packs a serious punch and features iconic KRK yellow styling.
- Loud and punchy output.
- Detailed DSP controls for maximum flexibility.
- High build quality and a long warranty period.
Our Verdict
Pioneer DJ’s new VM series is a big improvement over previous options, and the Pioneer DJ VM-70, in particular, is among my favorites. It offers an excellent balance between price and performance.
The updated design is also superb, and the build quality lives up to my expectations for Pioneer DJ gear. If you want a large studio monitor that can do double duty in your home studio at a reasonable price, the Pioneer DJ VM-70 is a serious contender that should be on your shortlist.
Pioneer DJ VM-70
Overall Rating (8/10)