The Best DJ Controllers and Mixers for 2024: A Review of the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7, Rane Seventy-Two MKII, and Denon DJ PRIME 4+
In today’s DJing world, having the right equipment is crucial to unlocking your creative potential and delivering an unforgettable performance. With so many controllers and mixers on the market, it can be hard to choose the best gear for your setup. In this comprehensive review, we’re diving into three top-tier DJ devices: the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 2-deck Serato DJ Controller, the Rane Seventy-Two MKII Professional 2-Channel DJ Mixer, and the Denon DJ PRIME 4+ Standalone DJ Controller & Mixer. Each of these pieces of equipment offers unique features and capabilities that cater to both seasoned professionals and ambitious beginners.
Whether you're a Serato DJ user, love standalone DJing, or want the best performance pads and multi-touch screens, these devices offer something special. Let’s explore their key features, performance, pros, and cons so you can make an informed decision on your next DJ setup.
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1. Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 2-deck Serato DJ Controller
Overview:
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 is a 2-deck controller designed specifically for Serato DJ Pro. Featuring motorized jog wheels, dedicated performance pads, and intuitive controls, this controller gives DJs the tools to perform high-energy, creative sets. The layout is inspired by professional battle-style setups, making it a great option for scratch DJs and turntablists.
Key Features:
Motorized Jog Wheels: The standout feature of the DDJ-REV7 is its large, motorized jog wheels that mimic the feel of vinyl, giving scratch DJs unparalleled precision and control.
Battle-Style Layout: The pitch sliders are placed horizontally at the top of each deck, and the performance pads are positioned below the jog wheels for fast, easy access during high-energy routines.
High-Quality Sound Engine: Equipped with a high-quality sound engine, the DDJ-REV7 delivers pristine sound quality across all frequencies, making it ideal for club and festival environments.
On-Jog Display: Each jog wheel features a display in the center that shows track information, BPM, waveforms, and even custom logos, so you can keep your focus on the decks without needing to look at your laptop.
Serato DJ Pro Integration: Designed for seamless use with Serato DJ Pro, the DDJ-REV7 unlocks advanced Serato features like hot cues, slicer, and sampler, providing endless creative possibilities.
Performance:
For DJs who love scratching and performing complex routines, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 offers an authentic, vinyl-like experience thanks to its motorized jog wheels. The battle-style layout is a refreshing change from traditional DJ controllers, making it more intuitive for turntablists to execute quick cuts and transitions. The on-jog display is a game-changer, allowing DJs to keep track of their mix without looking away from their gear.
The sound quality is superb, with crisp highs, punchy mids, and deep lows that hold up in any professional setting. The DDJ-REV7’s Serato DJ Pro integration is seamless, offering deep control over the software’s features and effects, making it one of the best controllers for Serato users.
Pros:
Motorized jog wheels for realistic vinyl feel
Battle-style layout ideal for scratch DJs
High-quality sound engine
On-jog displays for track and waveform info
Tight integration with Serato DJ Pro
Cons:
Designed primarily for Serato users (may not appeal to other software users)
Bulkier than some other 2-deck controllers, limiting portability
Final Thoughts:
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 is a fantastic choice for DJs who prioritize scratching and turntablism. Its motorized jog wheels, battle-style layout, and powerful integration with Serato DJ Pro make it an excellent tool for high-performance sets. If you’re a Serato DJ looking to elevate your routines, this controller is worth every penny.
2. Rane Seventy-Two MKII - Professional 2-Channel DJ Mixer
Overview:
The Rane Seventy-Two MKII is a professional 2-channel mixer designed for Serato DJ users, offering unparalleled durability and functionality for scratch DJs and battle-style performances. It features a multi-touch screen, dual DVS inputs, and Akai Pro MPC performance pads, giving DJs complete control over their music and effects in a rugged, road-ready package.
Key Features:
Multi-Touch Screen: The Seventy-Two MKII’s 4.3-inch touch screen provides real-time feedback, allowing you to browse tracks, adjust waveforms, and control FX without needing to look at your laptop.
Akai Pro MPC Performance Pads: The large, responsive performance pads allow for intricate finger drumming, hot cues, and loops, adding a new dimension to your sets.
Dual DVS Inputs: With dual DVS inputs, the Seventy-Two MKII allows for seamless vinyl control, making it a top choice for DJs who love using turntables alongside digital setups.
MAG FOUR Crossfader: The MAG FOUR fader is one of the lightest and most responsive faders available, designed for fast, precise cuts, making it perfect for scratch DJs.
Serato DJ Pro Integration: Full integration with Serato DJ Pro gives you access to advanced features like looping, slicing, and instant doubles, all controlled from the mixer.
Performance:
The Rane Seventy-Two MKII shines in battle settings, thanks to its responsive MAG FOUR fader and highly customizable performance pads. The multi-touch screen provides real-time waveform updates, allowing DJs to focus on their performance without glancing at their laptops. The dual DVS inputs make it easy for turntablists to incorporate vinyl into their sets while still benefiting from the versatility of Serato DJ Pro.
When it comes to sound, the Seventy-Two MKII delivers outstanding clarity, even at high volumes. The internal FX engine offers a wide range of effects that can be layered and customized, giving DJs endless options for manipulating their sound.
Pros:
Durable, battle-ready build
MAG FOUR crossfader for smooth cuts
Multi-touch screen for waveform control
Dual DVS inputs for seamless vinyl integration
Integrated with Serato DJ Pro for advanced functionality
Cons:
Slight learning curve for beginners due to advanced features
Higher price point may not suit casual DJs
Final Thoughts:
The Rane Seventy-Two MKII is a powerhouse mixer designed for professional DJs who need the best tools for battle-style performances. Its durability, sound quality, and cutting-edge features make it one of the top choices for scratch DJs and turntablists. If you’re serious about your craft and demand the best, the Seventy-Two MKII is worth the investment.
3. Denon DJ PRIME 4+ Standalone DJ Controller & Mixer
Overview:
The Denon DJ PRIME 4+ is a 4-deck standalone DJ controller and mixer that offers unmatched versatility for professional DJs. Featuring Wi-Fi music streaming, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and integrated light control, the PRIME 4+ is designed to be a complete, all-in-one solution for DJs who want to perform without relying on a laptop. With its standalone capabilities and wide array of features, the PRIME 4+ stands out as one of the most powerful DJ controllers on the market.
Key Features:
Standalone Capability: The PRIME 4+ operates entirely without a laptop, allowing DJs to play from USB drives, SD cards, or even external hard drives, giving you total freedom in your performances.
Wi-Fi Music Streaming: With built-in Wi-Fi, you can stream music directly from platforms like TIDAL, Beatport LINK, and SoundCloud, making it easier than ever to access new tracks on the fly.
10.1-Inch Touchscreen: The large, responsive touchscreen allows for intuitive control over your tracks, waveforms, and settings, providing a smooth, modern DJ experience.
4 Decks of Control: With four decks, DJs can layer tracks, loops, and samples for more complex and dynamic sets.
Light Control and Internal FX: The PRIME 4+ integrates light control, allowing DJs to sync their performance with stage lighting. Its built-in FX engine offers a range of effects to add flair to any mix.
Performance:
The Denon DJ PRIME 4+ is an all-in-one powerhouse that excels in versatility and ease of use. Its standalone capability is its most significant advantage, allowing DJs to perform without relying on a laptop or external software. The built-in Wi-Fi streaming is a game-changer, giving DJs access to a nearly unlimited library of music at their fingertips.
The 10.1-inch touchscreen is highly responsive and makes navigating through tracks and adjusting settings a breeze. Whether you're layering tracks across four decks or triggering samples, the PRIME 4+ handles everything with ease. The sound quality is exceptional, and the internal FX add depth to your sets, making every performance feel professional and polished.
Pros:
Standalone capability for laptop-free performances
Wi-Fi music streaming from major platforms
Large, responsive touchscreen
4 decks for complex mixing
Light control integration for synced performances
Cons:
Larger and heavier than typical DJ controllers, limiting portability
Price point may be high for beginner DJs
Final Thoughts:
The Denon DJ PRIME 4+ is the ultimate controller for DJs who want complete control over their performances without being tied to a laptop. With its standalone capability, built-in Wi-Fi streaming, and professional-grade sound quality, it’s an unbeatable option for experienced DJs looking to take their sets to the next level.
Conclusion: Which DJ Controller or Mixer Is Right for You?
Each of these DJ controllers and mixers offers unique features that cater to different types of DJs:
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7 is perfect for Serato DJs who love scratching and want the feel of real vinyl with motorized jog wheels.
The Rane Seventy-Two MKII is a top choice for battle DJs who need a durable, feature-rich mixer with responsive pads and dual DVS inputs.
The Denon DJ PRIME 4+ is the ultimate standalone DJ controller, perfect for those who want maximum freedom and versatility in their performances.
Whatever your style, one of these devices will help you unlock your full potential as a DJ.
DJ controller reviews
Best DJ controllers 2024
Pioneer DDJ-REV7 review
Rane Seventy-Two MKII mixer
Denon DJ PRIME 4+ standalone controller
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It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Three
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Four
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.