The original Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX controller came out in 2012 and was the first significant four-deck Serato controllers arrive on the the market. Pioneer DJ released the DDJ-SX2 in 2015, which updated what was already a impressive controller.
The DDJ-SX2 looks almost identical to the DDJ-SX, other a few minor changes. First is the addition of three buttons for Serato Flip functionality on the unit itself. Also the centre ring of the jogwheels now show cue countdown markers. There are also new varied coloured backlit performance pads for easier identification. Finally, the "Dual Deck" buttons, which let you select either channels 1 and 3 or 2 and 4 simultaneously, have been removed. You now press both deck buttons to enable Dual Deck mode.
Functionality
The DDJ-SX2 the three dedicated buttons – Record, Start, and Slot can be used to access Serato Flip and record hot cue combinations and replay them on loop. The full-sized jog wheels are optimised for a really nice scratch response, while the illuminated cue point markers with cue countdown give you effortless control without looking at your laptop screen. You can trigger Quantized Hot Cues, Roll, Slicer and Sampler, or hit Shift to save and activate Cue and Slicer Loops. Velocity Mode lets you control the sample volume with the amount of pressure you apply. The multi-coloured backlit LEDs give a visual reference to which modes are in play, and will reflect cue points you’ve pre-set in Serato DJ. This controller has 4 inputs to connect to CDJs or analogue turntables and use as a stand alone mixer (no computer needed). You can also connect directly to professional PA equipment with the Booth and 2 Master, plus the 2 MIC inputs have been improved to eliminate distortion. It also include 'Melodics' which is an app that helps you to learn cue point drumming techniques. The Needle search function is a useful touch strip for fast searches.
DVS, Serato & rekordbox DJ
The DDJ-SX2 is Serato DJ DVS ready. The Serato DJ DVS Expansion Pack allows you to scratch with CDJs or analogue turntables using Serato NoiseMap Control CD/vinyl.
You can also use this product to control Rekordbox DJ software. Rekordbox DJ is Pioneer's answer to Serato and is a Rekordbox Plus Pack that has features including Hot Cues, Sampler, Slicer, Sound Colour FX, Beat FX, Beat Jump and Pad FX.
Alternatives
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX2 is one, if not the best premium four-channel Serato DJ controller in the sub £1000 range. It is an improved DDJ-SX and can now be used Serato DVS which is one of the main draws of this unit. It is worth looking at the Denon MC 7000 Serato DJ Controller. MC7000 is a professional DJ controller with 4-channel Serato DJ capability and dual USB connections. These two USB audio interfaces enable two DJs to play together (on their preferred DJ software).
Specifications
- Software - Serato DJ
Input ports
- CD x 2 (RCA), Line/Phono x 2 (RCA)
- MIC x 2 (XLR & ¼ inch combined jack x 1, ¼ inch jack x 1)
Output ports
- Master Out x 2 (RCA x 1, XLR x 1)
- Booth Out x 1 (¼ inch jack)
- Headphone Monitor Out x 2 (front panel ¼ inch jack, MiniPin)
Other ports
- USB x 1 (B terminal)
- Frequency response - 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion ratio - 0.003% or less
- S/N ratio - 107 dB (PC)
- Maximum dimensions (W x D x H) - 664 x 353.4 x 70.4 mm
- Unit weight - 5.8 kg
