In this Digital DJ Tips exclusive, our tutor DJ Jazzy Jeff puts the brand-new DDJ-REV1 through its paces. Who says you need expensive kit to DJ like a pro? The DDJ-REV1 is an entry-level device, so it’s all plastic, but the build quality is fine – many pro DJs are happy to use these types of controllers as portable, secondary units, including our own tutor Jazzy Jeff ( see his demo mix on this very device here). As stated, this controller is basically the replacement for the ageing but hugely popular Pioneer DJ DDJ-SB3 Serato controller. The DDJ-REV1 is a bold replacement for the ageing, yet popular DDJ-SB3.

Overall, the Pioneer DDJ-REV1 provides an excellent basis for playing, perfect for learning and getting practice for those up-and-coming scratch battles. For the first time on a controller of this size, the microphone audio is sent to the laptop. Allowing the microphone to be recorded and streamed without the need for additional hardware! You should get an instant answer on whether your application has been successful, though in some rare cases Klarna or V12 may need to look at the application in more detail.The REV1 even supports Serato DJ Pro, meaning that as you grow as a DJ, you can still upgrade your setup to a more advanced rig. Take your performances to the next level with a free trial of Serato DJ Pro (paid permanent upgrade available separately).

The layout rejig also moves the performance pads into the mixer section, just like the DJM-S mixers. The additional space around the mixer makes scratching easier, and the position of the performance pads eases transitions using the FX within Serato DJ lite. The inclusion of FX triggers increases the creative possibilities when using the REV1. As the DDJ-REV1 is a laptop DJ controller, it needs to be used with the software. Serato DJ Lite and a USB cable are included free, making it ready to use straight out the box.

New Design Layout

Please note that this extended warranty is currently only available on products sold within the UK, EU or EEA, and is subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the extended warranty certificate provided. For the first time in a Pioneer DJ controller at this level, the output of the master audio is mixed with the sound from the microphone if you have one plugged in. This means you don’t need any external equipment such as a soundcard or separate mixer if you want to add speech or vocals to your performance and route it through your computer. All sounds are sent to Serato DJ Lite so you can stream from there. The mixer section is notable for its width – much bigger than usual for controllers this size, giving a spacious, well laid-out feel. But while the upfaders and crossfaders have space, this does mean the performance pads are small – more on those shortly. Master of innovation, Pioneer have created this affordable battle-style DJ controller for use with Serato DJ Lite (can also be used with other DJ software). The new scratch-style design is perfect for honing your scratching skills as well as providing an ergonomic design for mixing. The DDJ-REV1 is designed to replicate the setup of the DJM-S mixer and the PLX turntables but with digital users in mind. With the inclusion of Levers, the DDJ-REV1 allows DJs to use more creative combinations of Serato Effects at the touch of a button.