I'm just starting down this rabbit hole and this has been the controller I've been learning on. While it's "meant for" scratch and battle style DJs, it feels super versatile for learning the basics and mixing any style. The Serato Pro upgrade is definitely a need if you feel you're going to keep at it, but it's been worth every cent so far. The build quality is top notch, it feels very solid. I've not had any trouble with the workflow in Serato at all. It's pretty easy to just start playing right away with a single click, which makes it easy for me to focus on practicing the art and getting better. It's definitely worth looking into as a starter controller to get in to DJing and mixing!
do you usually use it bro . do it last until now ?? , do you have any issue with it , i found online that there are people met alot of issue with this one make me so confuse
00:32 - Introduction to Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 02:12 - The supplied Serato DJ Lite software 02:56 - The decks 04:33 - The mixer 05:15 - The effects 06:25 - The performance pads 09:49 - Serato DJ Lite vs Serato DJ Pro 10:55 - The metering 11:24 - Drawbacks? 12:05 - Why this is a step forward 13:24 - Further resources
I started on Technics SL1200 MK5's and I love this Rev-1 controller so far. Awesome and the portability is a relief from carrying heavy turntables!!!!!
one thing I have spotted is that on the SB3, you had a vinyl button which it's secondary function was to enable slip mode if you had Serato pro. This is missing on the rev1. Also the FX fade has been replaced by the Auto loop also titled the same as the autoloop button, which just fires up preselected loops. of course Pad Scratch is now tracking. Also the 'slicer' function is missing as well as it now triggers the scratch bank. - perhaps thats my only gripe but then you can do it all manually
I just got me one of these! I got it for a steal of a deal! $140! I'm literally brand new to DJing and so far I don't know a damn thing that I'm doing! haha. But thanks for the layout discussion. Very helpful. I've been producing music for a couple of years now and thought it might be a good idea to start learning how to DJ as well!
Love this new controller, although not really for my EDM skillset, but still love the features and drive for availability for scratch DJs that the industry is leaning towards too now! Also can just see Twitter exploding about that Tracking mode. Really cool piece of tech for me, but some are going to HATE that lol!
i got one of these to replace my sb3.... i was not really impressed by it at all i thought it was kind of dull and boring, but have to say after using it for a year, its a real nice controller to mix on , the jog wheels are excellent, and the layout is very spacious, not crammed.
Awesome review thank you for posting! I am waiting for some thing in this price range that has motorized wheels. I can dream LOL, or at least lights that look like they're spinning. Pioneer should've had some spinning lights on the wheels to mimic a real turntable
Great review as always. I've been djing for a long time and i'm old school, more blending than scratching. Started using controller and serato about six months ago with the Numark MIXTRACK Platinum FX but since this Pioneer dropped, i've been eying it cause of the clean layout. Though i'm not much into scratching, will this controller be about the same as the Numark MIXTRACK Platinum FX or a step above other than the layout?
Thanks a lot for this review! Just stumbled upon it 😁! Coming from vinyl and an analog mixer, currently looking for nice little entry DJ controller capable to do scratches (before going big with the Rane One 😉). So my question is, can you adjust the Crossfader curve, i.e. does it open quick enough (what is essential for scratching)? Cheers Marcel
Hello Phil, Thank u very much for your video, really usefull. It's been quite a few years since i was dj-ing and lokking to start again, but it looks like things have changed (feeling old now 😅). I was just wondering how and if i can use headphones to listen to one deck as the other one is playing on the speakers. I have a laptop with Windows 10 to use with the Pioneer DDJ-Rev1. Kind regards, Kris.
I’ve had quite a lot of controllers and equipment in my time yet the trim just doesn’t feel right on this one like it’s very off . Having to set it around 10 or channels redline and, noticed the jazzy Jeff demo it was redlining too with his serato trims around 10 ish , it just doesn’t feel right
@@digitaldjtips thanks for the response , that’s good to know , might have a go at scratching, something I’ve always wanted to do . Had to sell my sc live 4 as needed to move home and was gutted so picking one of these up cheap , doesn’t compare but it’ll do for now
@@justino9042 The ddj-rev7 costs $2000 and has much more functions as the rev1. In comparison to the $250 for the ddj-rev1 the current price for the numark mixtrack pro fx is $230.
@@justino9042 you misunderstood on something for sure. There were 2 different controllers from pioneer, one expensive another cheaper entry level. This one is cheaper one.
Most entry level controllers are pretty similar, if you're happy with the REV1, go for it. Bear in mind that it is Serato though, not Rekordbox, which is more the club standard system.
I have the Pioneer Rev1 with Serato Pro on a MSI gaming laptop When using stems i realize after a while the software freezes. Does anyone else experience this? What can be done to avoid this? I often closed unused programs with task manager
the controller is hardware locked unless you subscribe to monthly plan of rekordbox or serrate pro, waste of money unless you willing to use it only with serato lite or virtual dj. It funny how all reviews & guides fail to mention that. Save your money unless for xdj series that will include full version of rekordbox instead of waisting on subscription for a controller you purchased.
To clarify: 1. This is not a Rekordbox controller, if you want Rekordbox, buying a Rekordbox controller will give you a good version of the software without a subscription. Do not buy this controller for Rekordbox 2. You do not need to subscribe to Serato, they have a "buy outright" option too, just like Virtual DJ (same price, $299). 3.Yes, we do mention that this only comes with the lite software, we are well aware of that. Why would we hide that fact? Indeed we recently did an investigation on the price of DJ software: www.digitaldjtips.com/2022/05/is-dj-software-becoming-too-expensive/
The layout on this is a bloody nightmare. Button placement it terrible. Pads are clicky and horrible, the transform paddles are too sticky to be used seriously. It's a bit of a disaster.
Hate that layout.. Clumsy.. So much more risk of brushing the jog when pressing buttons.. Absolutely hate it. Also 4 decks are on the sb3... Some slight better things than sb3 but not a real upgrade for me. Those pads are awful... They should have thrown serato pro.. That would be a huge pull and proper value rather than pioneer just going sideways.
@@digitaldjtips True, but the main reason they arranged their tables like that is to avoid bumping the tonearm. If there is no tonearm why put the pitch on top?
@@mbolez people are just used to adjusting it there. this is to help you prepare so if you enter the area deciding to do a red bull battle comp then thats how it would be laid out.
Software aside, which would you say is better to learn on this or the ddj 400? Thanks in advance . And my dream controller right now is the rane one, its just so beautiful to me lol. But taking software out just actual hardware which in your opinion is easier to learn the basics on.?
@@digitaldjtips thanks so much for the reply. Means alot. Guess I'm not sure what direction. I figured I learn the basics first and from there it will be easier to grasp other layouts. Thanks a million
![THE BEST BEGINNER CONTROLLER?! [Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 Review]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/afzQ6hFlFH0/mqdefault.jpg)
This tutorial, and Jazzy Jeff was more than enough to convince me. I’m getting this!
Cool!
I’m thoroughly impressed and happy with my rev1!
Glad to hear that!
I'm just starting down this rabbit hole and this has been the controller I've been learning on. While it's "meant for" scratch and battle style DJs, it feels super versatile for learning the basics and mixing any style. The Serato Pro upgrade is definitely a need if you feel you're going to keep at it, but it's been worth every cent so far. The build quality is top notch, it feels very solid. I've not had any trouble with the workflow in Serato at all. It's pretty easy to just start playing right away with a single click, which makes it easy for me to focus on practicing the art and getting better. It's definitely worth looking into as a starter controller to get in to DJing and mixing!
It's a very capable all-rounder.
do you usually use it bro . do it last until now ?? , do you have any issue with it , i found online that there are people met alot of issue with this one make me so confuse
00:32 - Introduction to Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1
02:12 - The supplied Serato DJ Lite software
02:56 - The decks
04:33 - The mixer
05:15 - The effects
06:25 - The performance pads
09:49 - Serato DJ Lite vs Serato DJ Pro
10:55 - The metering
11:24 - Drawbacks?
12:05 - Why this is a step forward
13:24 - Further resources
How much it cost?
I want the ddj rev1
And my dad and I are thinking about buying it
I started on Technics SL1200 MK5's and I love this Rev-1 controller so far. Awesome and the portability is a relief from carrying heavy turntables!!!!!
Glad you're enjoying the "controller revolution"!
one thing I have spotted is that on the SB3, you had a vinyl button which it's secondary function was to enable slip mode if you had Serato pro. This is missing on the rev1. Also the FX fade has been replaced by the Auto loop also titled the same as the autoloop button, which just fires up preselected loops. of course Pad Scratch is now tracking. Also the 'slicer' function is missing as well as it now triggers the scratch bank. - perhaps thats my only gripe but then you can do it all manually
Thanks for the feedback. You do know it has slip mode, right?
I just got me one of these! I got it for a steal of a deal! $140! I'm literally brand new to DJing and so far I don't know a damn thing that I'm doing! haha. But thanks for the layout discussion. Very helpful. I've been producing music for a couple of years now and thought it might be a good idea to start learning how to DJ as well!
Great deal!
Awesome! Where were you able to get it at a steal price?
Keeping my eyes peeled for the Dj Jazzy Jeff dj course!
We are working hard on getting it ready every day at the moment Barry, won't be too long now...
Love this new controller, although not really for my EDM skillset, but still love the features and drive for availability for scratch DJs that the industry is leaning towards too now! Also can just see Twitter exploding about that Tracking mode. Really cool piece of tech for me, but some are going to HATE that lol!
Yes, it is good that is is made for a certain type of DJ and not for everyone. Tracking mode is cool, whatever anyone says 😜
i got one of these to replace my sb3.... i was not really impressed by it at all i thought it was kind of dull and boring, but have to say after using it for a year, its a real nice controller to mix on , the jog wheels are excellent, and the layout is very spacious, not crammed.
Thanks for sharing your experience
Thank you for your time. You taught me a few things that I've been struggling with 👍 nice video mate
You’re welcome
Hey Phil & UA-camrs 😎🖐🖐
(1st post)
Dope presentation! with Dj Jazzy Jeff
-Mike Beats
It was fun to make hit with him Mike!
I love it I'm buying it.
great tutorial!!!!!
I have some performance videos with this controller ddj rev1
Thanks! 👍
Mannnn I am waiting for the Rev10
Awesome review thank you for posting! I am waiting for some thing in this price range that has motorized wheels. I can dream LOL, or at least lights that look like they're spinning. Pioneer should've had some spinning lights on the wheels to mimic a real turntable
Indeed, controllers that cost a little ore often have this, but it's not common at this price point.
great review, thank you
you're welcome
Great Video!
I know I am late to the party but, is this compare to the DDj400?
This is for Serato, the DDJ-400 is Rekordbox. That's the biggest difference.
Great review as always. I've been djing for a long time and i'm old school, more blending than scratching. Started using controller and serato about six months ago with the Numark MIXTRACK Platinum FX but since this Pioneer dropped, i've been eying it cause of the clean layout. Though i'm not much into scratching, will this controller be about the same as the Numark MIXTRACK Platinum FX or a step above other than the layout?
No, same size and same price point - it's comparable.
Thanks a lot for this review! Just stumbled upon it 😁! Coming from vinyl and an analog mixer, currently looking for nice little entry DJ controller capable to do scratches (before going big with the Rane One 😉). So my question is, can you adjust the Crossfader curve, i.e. does it open quick enough (what is essential for scratching)? Cheers Marcel
Yes, you can (in the software)
A Cue Mix Control Knob (like the 400 has) would have been nice … ?!
Yes a curious omission
essential feature
Please do a video comparing Rev 1 with Numark Mixtrack Platinum Fx.
We may well do, thank you for the suggestion.
Soundlab called, they want their horizontal dlp1600 pitch-faders back 😂
Ha ha, there's a memory Hugh! I'd completely forgotten about that turntable.
@@digitaldjtips we all started there (or a bit higher up the soundlab ladder) back in the day. They were so bad....
Hello Phil,
Thank u very much for your video, really usefull.
It's been quite a few years since i was dj-ing and lokking to start again, but it looks like things have changed (feeling old now 😅).
I was just wondering how and if i can use headphones to listen to one deck as the other one is playing on the speakers. I have a laptop with Windows 10 to use with the Pioneer DDJ-Rev1.
Kind regards,
Kris.
You just plug them in and press the cue button for the channel you want to hear in your headphones. Have you done this?
I am interested in starting to DJ. Would this be a good idea to start off with to grow into or should I look at something else?
This is a great controller to start on
Its good for starting mixing house, techno, trance, psytrance?
It's good, it has all the features you'd need.
Cool gadgets
Can the crossfader be upgraded/replaced to say an innofader on the DDJ-REV1?
No, that is never possible on controllers at this price level.
Thanks i want to use this for traktor is the possible ? Sound card good for headphones pre listening?
you can probably map this to Traktor, but it isn;t designed for it and the jogwheels may present a challenge. Yes, it has full pre-fade listen.
Gracias
Think I'll just go with serato now !
I’ve had quite a lot of controllers and equipment in my time yet the trim just doesn’t feel right on this one like it’s very off .
Having to set it around 10 or channels redline and, noticed the jazzy Jeff demo it was redlining too with his serato trims around 10 ish , it just doesn’t feel right
Thanks for sharing the observation, ultimately as long as you can hit the level you want…
Please help. How do you change the pitch percentage.
Hold the DECK/VINLY button for 1 second or more intervals changes the pitch percentage from +8, +16 & +50% before cycling back to +8
I’ve got ddj 1000 and djm900 and also djm s7 and Rev 7 the s series are way in front in my opinion
Definitely the best choice for scratch DJs.
Thank you
You're welcome
Could you do general mixing on this like with tech house for example , the cue button looks very small , can it still be tapped like on other gear ?
Yes you can! It's meant more for scratching/open format DJing though, FLX4 is the better choice for what you want at this price point
@@digitaldjtips thanks for the response , that’s good to know , might have a go at scratching, something I’ve always wanted to do .
Had to sell my sc live 4 as needed to move home and was gutted so picking one of these up cheap , doesn’t compare but it’ll do for now
The s series are the way forward without a doubt
Definitely the best choice for scratch DJs.
Hello I was wondering about the FX Fades difference? Is there a way to get those same fades automatically in the new controller?
Nice review, i have question about sharp curve crossfader. Is the same like DDJ 400 ? Thanks :)
You can set it sharp like on the 400, yes
@@digitaldjtips Thanks for your time and answer ;))
Hoping for a mapping file and ios compatibility then I might switch it out for my numark platinum fx
Maybe one will come soon enough...
Is there a big difference in functions compared to a numark mixtrack pro fx? Both have paddles as effects control and use serato.
No, not hugely.
The biggest difference its that this pionner ddj rev1 cost 2000 dolars and i think the numark mixtrack pro cost 300 dólars.
@@justino9042 The ddj-rev7 costs $2000 and has much more functions as the rev1. In comparison to the $250 for the ddj-rev1 the current price for the numark mixtrack pro fx is $230.
@@justino9042 you misunderstood on something for sure. There were 2 different controllers from pioneer, one expensive another cheaper entry level. This one is cheaper one.
I'm in 2 minds, don't know weather to buy the Numark NS4FX or the Pioneer Rev 1....?
NS4FX is more professional, but more expensive.
This controller looks cool, however this is awkward that nothing has been released for rekordbox.
I am sure they have Rekordbox stuff up their sleeves.
Not a fan of the location of the paddles, personal preference is below the pads. Add xlr outputs and I would consider it as a back up controller
The reason they are where they are is that that is where they are on "industry standard" mixers, ie DJM-S7.
@@digitaldjtips oh I get that just personal preference. My muscle memory would kick in pretty quick to learn it anyway
anyone who has this DDJ , could you please share some experiment with it ?? . do it last ??
Does Tracking Scratch FX work on ANY uploaded track or song??
I want to get into club djing, I found a good deal on the rev1, should I go for it or should I save my money for something else?
Most entry level controllers are pretty similar, if you're happy with the REV1, go for it. Bear in mind that it is Serato though, not Rekordbox, which is more the club standard system.
I have the Pioneer Rev1 with Serato Pro on a MSI gaming laptop
When using stems i realize after a while the software freezes. Does anyone else experience this? What can be done to avoid this?
I often closed unused programs with task manager
Not sure, it is true that stems are very processor intensive.
@@digitaldjtips ohh, well the laptop I use is 11th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-11800H @ 2.30GHz 2.30 GHz with 16GB RAM
@@djmickeyTV stems use GPU to process
Ddj rev1 or numark mix-track platinum fx
Whichever you can get really, both are good
I need step by step instruction on how to connect my pioneer rev1 to my macbook. 0
Nothing to tell - plug it in with the supplied lead. Download Serato from the serato.com website. Have you done that?
Did it all. Still nothin, ill keep trying.
Does it Comes with the software all together?
Yes
Shame it doesn't run on rekordbox as I finds serato mind boggling to use
You need the DDJ-FLX4 as Pioneer DJ's alternative.
is this a good controller for EDM music? Looking to get into it
Yes, although it is primarily designed for open format/scratch DJs.
I'm trying to figure out which software's are compatible with this controller? Also, I'm assuming I can use my windows 11 laptop
Yes you can, and it works with Serato
Hello, when will this controller becomes available for serato dj pro? Thank you
It is now, isn't it?
Is there a crossfader reverse option? (hamster switch)
|Don't think so, maybe in the Settings (but don't think there is).
Does it work with virtual DJ?
yes
I want to start DJing EDM music. Is this a good controller to start on?
Yes, although it is aimed more at scratch/party DJs, but it will do the job just fine.
What's new for rekordbox? No new controller?
We got nothing for you right now...
Help mine cant scratch just drags the pitch cant even backspin💔
change your jog wheels to Vinyl mode vs CDJ mode. press Shift and the 3/4 buttons per deck.
@@KingFaderRecordings thankyou. solved!
Can learn dj on this unit
Yes
Can I use the stems in serato dj lite?
Yes but just vocals and instrumentals
Needs to be universal: Rekordbox and Serato.
Maybe it will be soon...
its all money making
It would be nice if they had Xlr instead of rca jacks.
You never get XLR on controllers at this price point
@@digitaldjtips agreed - he can look at the rev7 for that.
would you suggest this one or the herckues impulse 500?
Either are fine
@@digitaldjtips thx my friend
is this controller compatible with serato dj pro
Yes
Hey will this work with Virtual Dj?
If not now, it will soon...
Can u used it with Virtual dj?
Yes you can!
Can you use pitch and time on the rev 1
Yes
@@digitaldjtips how??? I cant figure it out… what do you press
Is this controller easy to use
Yes
I still have the DDJ SR what your thoughts
Would you say Rev1 is similar to the SR
Can i use pioneer ddj rev 1 with serato dj pro
Yes
@@digitaldjtips how can I do it
Boss how can I do it please
the controller is hardware locked unless you subscribe to monthly plan of rekordbox or serrate pro, waste of money unless you willing to use it only with serato lite or virtual dj. It funny how all reviews & guides fail to mention that. Save your money unless for xdj series that will include full version of rekordbox instead of waisting on subscription for a controller you purchased.
To clarify:
1. This is not a Rekordbox controller, if you want Rekordbox, buying a Rekordbox controller will give you a good version of the software without a subscription. Do not buy this controller for Rekordbox
2. You do not need to subscribe to Serato, they have a "buy outright" option too, just like Virtual DJ (same price, $299).
3.Yes, we do mention that this only comes with the lite software, we are well aware of that. Why would we hide that fact? Indeed we recently did an investigation on the price of DJ software: www.digitaldjtips.com/2022/05/is-dj-software-becoming-too-expensive/
Pioneer knows the buisness
What are you loving about this, Eric?
@@digitaldjtips the 4 decks option and those jogwheels are definitely something to lookout for . And i also love the clean layout
5:05 SB3 could allready do that 🤔
True, it's the software that allows that thanks to recent improvements to it.
The layout on this is a bloody nightmare. Button placement it terrible. Pads are clicky and horrible, the transform paddles are too sticky to be used seriously. It's a bit of a disaster.
It's a love/hate thing, for sure.
Hate that layout.. Clumsy.. So much more risk of brushing the jog when pressing buttons.. Absolutely hate it. Also 4 decks are on the sb3... Some slight better things than sb3 but not a real upgrade for me. Those pads are awful... They should have thrown serato pro.. That would be a huge pull and proper value rather than pioneer just going sideways.
That's the expensive versión the one that you seeing there cost 2000 dolars.
You're right, it's not meant to be an upgrade, more a repositioning/replacement.
@@justino9042 don't know what you mean.. This one is the cheaper 250 ver
That its bad look at the pitch 😭 omg that its terrible that its atrocious
It's called "battle layout" and it copies how scratch DJs arrange their turntables. That said, it won't be for everyone...
@@digitaldjtips True, but the main reason they arranged their tables like that is to avoid bumping the tonearm. If there is no tonearm why put the pitch on top?
@@mbolez people are just used to adjusting it there. this is to help you prepare so if you enter the area deciding to do a red bull battle comp then thats how it would be laid out.
Software aside, which would you say is better to learn on this or the ddj 400? Thanks in advance . And my dream controller right now is the rane one, its just so beautiful to me lol. But taking software out just actual hardware which in your opinion is easier to learn the basics on.?
They're both easy, go for the DDJ-4000 is you want to be a "club" type DJ, the REV1 if you want to be a performance/scratch type DJ.
@@digitaldjtips thanks so much for the reply. Means alot. Guess I'm not sure what direction. I figured I learn the basics first and from there it will be easier to grasp other layouts. Thanks a million