Have you switched to phono on the channel input? Right on the side of channels 3 and 4, you’ve got a line/phono switch. Other thing, is your needle Moving Coil or Moving Magnetic (MC or MM) Depending on the capsule type, it will affect the signal.
If he didn't have it set to phono, it wouldn't work. Being able to play music and have it sound normal is proof he's using a phono pre. You are correct about cart output, but you would never see a moving coil cart on DJ gear.
@@TheDJLab if you made another video showing that it works fine, then you need to pull this video. I will say that mine works great - Pioneer needs to step it up.
Wonder how many of us unable to buy or find ANY Pioneer controllers or CDJs in stock ANYWHERE are now looking at Denons P4 lol. Played on one for 9 hrs, it was flawless, with 1200's.. Ive been a DJ since 1984. Def int in this / XDJ-XZ for use w my 1200's. Noticed your crossfader was panned mostly right, might affect output if connected to the 1200's channel Edit: RE phono preamp loudness - another point is that many records simply arent as loud as digital files, at least older records. Thanks for all your vids and coverage! Great channel.
Prime 4 is PRIMARILY STANDALONE Digital DJ SYSTEM! Not 4 Ch mix. Line and Phono inputs is only additionaly functions. All BEAT EFX is quantized... audio recording from the Line or phono input is not quantized. Manual filter is not Beat Efx, so it is implemented for the Line/phono input. Technical design and intention of the manufacturer was not to produce a product with all the functions of a club 4-channel mixer. The intention of the manufacturer was to design and produce a functional stand-alone digital audio DJ system so that you do not need to connect peripheral audio devices to it. If someone wants to use turntables, they won't buy a Prime 4 after all. The Prime 4 is not designed to cover all aspects of DJing with this one product.
@@TheDJLab I have to agree that this was obviously not designed for hooking up external mixers - as you mentioned it's not working very well. As standalone 4 channel mixer I think this wins against the Pioneer stuff bigtime. The line-ins are for wedding-DJs that wanna hookup some mp3 player from guests or laptops or other stuff. the phono in... i dunno - is kinda senseless.
@@TheDJLab This unit is something between a controller and separates. Prime OS runs on an internal computer and all the knobs, faders, buttons, etc, are used to control the single while its digital. Its a computer and controller in one box. If you wanted to use the effects on a TT, the signal would have to run through an analog to digital converter, get sent it to the internal computer and Engine OS would have to process the signal in real time (grid, bpm, quantize, key, etc..). There would be no way to check if all the processing was done correctly, so it would have to be 100% the first try. After all that is done, you can now use the effects in Engine OS. With 2 decks and a mixer, all that can be eliminated. The exception being if you wanted to use the separates for software like Serato and Traktor, then the stand alone pieces are used as a controller.
Switched to prime 4, great screen, zone out, frequent upgrades, built in hard drive not to mention streaming services. Also have SC5000s and X1850 mixer. After using Denon gear Pioneer would bore to death...no technology, just basic stuff.
Have you used the sc5000 with the prime? I've been waiting for their new one as the prime 4 is pricey still....and was worried if I buy it the new one would be out...but the sc4 doesn't look anything near as good...plus the speaker and less functions.... Only good thing is that it's new and cheaper....
Very useful information! I was interested in the new Prime 4 + but this ( effects not working ) might just be a deal breaker for me considering that effects do work with an external source on a Pioneer XDJ-RX3. Thanks a lot.
Buying a controller just to worry about hooking up a set of turntables up to it just makes no sense. Yes I know plenty of DJ's do it. But it's just overkill.
Think I’d rather just use a separate mixer all in ones will be a home install device and have separate mixer and decks to take out or a small controller
Do we get a BPM counter on the XDJ RZ when using turntables connected to it? I keep going back and forth between the prime 4 and RZ. My setup is mostly for home, I'm old school I don't use a computer I will probably just use a USB for channels 1&2 and turntables on 3&4. Maybe I should get into DJ software but I'm so old school that I wouldn't know where to start. I have mostly records and a ton of mp3's on a USB. I've been out of the scene for about 20 years since having kids and a wife
JUST BUY THE DENON X1850 TO RUN YOUR TURNTABLES. THE CONTROLLER IS A TOOL TO PLAY YOUR MP3 AND PERHAPS THE CDJ'S. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT AN GOING TO DO, THE X1850 IS COMING TO RUN MY TURNTABLES. THE PRIME 4 IS TO TAKE A LONG MOBIL JUST IN CASE.
@@m-stat9 Fix your smart-ass egotistical attitude. The Prime 4 is built as a software based standalone controller NOT a external input mixer. How often do you see DJs mixing with real vinyl(not DVS) using much effects. Old school vinyl mixing is usually more about beat juggling n scratching(turntablism) or just plain mixing/blending of tunes like Mala,Aphrodite,Roni Size,JKenzo. Their sets are all just blending tunes. If u want to use effects with vinyl buy a actual vinyl set up or a proper DVS set up such as Serato or Traktor. Real vinyl also doesn't have hot cues,loop function,roll,slicer,sync,etc,etc. I mean do you want a full Ableton Push,MPC controller, vinyl mixer with effects unit and a standalone software controller? Probably want it gold plated as well?! The Prime 4 is 1k cheaper in NZ dollars than the Pioneer XDJ 4 Channel. Pioneer is overpriced.
@djlab Can I use any reverb on denon while connecting an external instrument to the mixer line 3 and 4? I play cello and definitely need some reverbs while playing?
@@TheDJLab I think I read if you connect the sc6000 to the prime 4 via thernet (small switch to connect the 2) then they can sync beat (not sure if they can use the prime 4 as source too but I think they should
It does have good volume with turntables if you have the settings right and decent cartridges. As for the effects not working with vinyl if you want effects with vinyl buy a DVS system that is made for vinyl,not a controller that is made for software controlling.
Hey :) thanks for your informative video . Ne completely different question I have and would be very happy if you could help me there: would you recommend 2 x JBL Partybox 1000 in combination with Prime 4 or SC6000 as a PA system? because they are easier to transport thought me get them to me but unfortunately do not know me technically with it . Would be happy about a short feedback. Kind regards
@@InVisionsynthmindscape how is this misleading? I didn't say to not buy it I just said you should watch my video first before you do so you can be informed
@@TheDJLab "Don't buy" is misleading because people generally don't like it if they think that one wants to attract clicks as many do, on problems that in reality the machine doesn't have all of here, then everyone does what seems obvious to them.
The XZ is hands down the best stand alone system to build on. it has everything the a CDJ3000+DJM900NXSii setup offers minus send return, in saying that you can still run an RMX1000 through a single channel limiting your ability to us it on all decks (I only use it occasionally so having a buildup limited to one deck isn't too bad. just need to keep in mind when mixing)
Thanks for the quick input as I'm actually considering this or the RX3 from Pioneer. The Prime 4 has that SSD slot underneath that would allow for a basically standalone controller with all your music. I also like the built quality of Denon. Tough decision.
The phono stage on the P4 is superb. Using Q-bert Ortofons or even the basic Pro-S Ortofon carts, the level & sound from the phono stage on my P4 is stellar!! Perhaps you have low output needles? Something you def have wrong in this video, is that Mic 1 actually does have a 3-band eq. Mic 2 only has low & high eq. Overall the mixer section on most pioneer gear will be superior, (in terms of effects anyway). I use my turntables a lot with my P4 and honestly don't have an issue not having more effects. You make it sound like not having some type of bpm detection for external sources is a bad thing. If you gonna mix on vinyl, use your ears. No need for bpm if there's no effects to use it with. One thing that i feel people need to know about the P4 (IMHO) is the x-fader is a piece of crap. I've replaced it at least 10 times now. It lasts "maybe" a month with average use (Im not a scratch dj) but I use the x-fader for stabs & chirps etc...
Mais fácil achar uma mosca branca de olhos verdes do que uma Prime 2 ou 4 pra vender.... Acho que a Denon percebeu as cagadas que fez e decidiu não mais fabricar esta linha, pelo menos por enquanto... Sem previsão de retorno, segundo a inMusic....
Use the phono switch input. The level changes in the blue. You don’t buy a Prime4 for use with vinyls. It’s not not a rap/hiphop device. The audio quality is better than Pioneer devices, which I like too
@@SuppeUrt All manuals are online,just like these videos made by people who don't know how to use the settings in their controllers and buy decent cartridges for their turntables!
Since effects from channel 1 and 4 don’t work via phono/line in. I’m guessing if you record your vinyls, you can still use those effects, on your digitally catalogued versions.
Good stuff. The FX limitations for external inputs could very well influence purchasing decisions. You don’t learn this from reading specs in web shops or from normal review videos. And most people don’t read the manual before purchasing. Personally, I thought that the FX were proper hardware FX like on mixers. But the Engine OS is really “just” a custom PC and DJ SW built into a controller.
You could via the master out,, but unlike the Pioneer DJM range, you don't have the send and return feature to utilise the rmx1000 fully. This is something I've already considered. For the limited functionality in respect of, the rmx500 would be the better option, but again this effect would be global and not channel specific.
Decent unit as long as you don't use it regularly. The Play buttons failing are becoming a joke. I'm starting to see why Pioneer are still the industry standard players. Why spend nearly £2k on a Prime 4, to use a few times a month at home, only for the deck play buttons to start becoming unresponsive, or need hammering just to start your track up. The amount of times this has caught me out now takes the biscuit to be honest.
No...it was switched to phono on back. I've since done a new video about the preamps and they seems to be in now. Might have been bad connection on my headshell.
@@kingsleyrussell348 It's standalone so you don't need a laptop. The point is so you are not looking sideways to browse thru your track library,look at waveforms etc like you would with a controller with a laptop. When using a controller with a laptop you have to look at it takes away from having more interaction with the crowd. If you need to use your laptop for anything apart from to store your tunes n browse thru your library n select your tunes then you can't DJ properly IMO. You should be able to beat match by ear,it's the number 1/fundamental DJ skill that every DJ should learn 1st and foremost.
Have you switched to phono on the channel input? Right on the side of channels 3 and 4, you’ve got a line/phono switch. Other thing, is your needle Moving Coil or Moving Magnetic (MC or MM) Depending on the capsule type, it will affect the signal.
If he didn't have it set to phono, it wouldn't work. Being able to play music and have it sound normal is proof he's using a phono pre. You are correct about cart output, but you would never see a moving coil cart on DJ gear.
Mine works perfectly fine using turntables on ch 1 and 4. Technics 1210s and ortofon carts. Don't let this review put you off buying.
Yes effects don't work but I knew that before buying
I made another video showing the it works fine. Think it was my headshells.
@@TheDJLab if you made another video showing that it works fine, then you need to pull this video. I will say that mine works great - Pioneer needs to step it up.
Well I'll add description and ad link
@author Thanks, that almost stopped me from purchasing it.. Are you able to confirm, what actually works with vinyls, and what does not?
Ty for advice, what's the techno tune you was playing on wax?
Wonder how many of us unable to buy or find ANY Pioneer controllers or CDJs in stock ANYWHERE are now looking at Denons P4 lol. Played on one for 9 hrs, it was flawless, with 1200's.. Ive been a DJ since 1984. Def int in this / XDJ-XZ for use w my 1200's. Noticed your crossfader was panned mostly right, might affect output if connected to the 1200's channel
Edit: RE phono preamp loudness - another point is that many records simply arent as loud as digital files, at least older records. Thanks for all your vids and coverage! Great channel.
Prime 4 is PRIMARILY STANDALONE Digital DJ SYSTEM! Not 4 Ch mix. Line and Phono inputs is only additionaly functions. All BEAT EFX is quantized... audio recording from the Line or phono input is not quantized. Manual filter is not Beat Efx, so it is implemented for the Line/phono input.
Technical design and intention of the manufacturer was not to produce a product with all the functions of a club 4-channel mixer. The intention of the manufacturer was to design and produce a functional stand-alone digital audio DJ system so that you do not need to connect peripheral audio devices to it.
If someone wants to use turntables, they won't buy a Prime 4 after all.
The Prime 4 is not designed to cover all aspects of DJing with this one product.
How do you know what the technical design and intention was of the manufacturer. I would expect that it was hard work effects such as the x1850
@@TheDJLab I have to agree that this was obviously not designed for hooking up external mixers - as you mentioned it's not working very well. As standalone 4 channel mixer I think this wins against the Pioneer stuff bigtime.
The line-ins are for wedding-DJs that wanna hookup some mp3 player from guests or laptops or other stuff. the phono in... i dunno - is kinda senseless.
@@TheDJLab This unit is something between a controller and separates. Prime OS runs on an internal computer and all the knobs, faders, buttons, etc, are used to control the single while its digital. Its a computer and controller in one box. If you wanted to use the effects on a TT, the signal would have to run through an analog to digital converter, get sent it to the internal computer and Engine OS would have to process the signal in real time (grid, bpm, quantize, key, etc..). There would be no way to check if all the processing was done correctly, so it would have to be 100% the first try. After all that is done, you can now use the effects in Engine OS. With 2 decks and a mixer, all that can be eliminated. The exception being if you wanted to use the separates for software like Serato and Traktor, then the stand alone pieces are used as a controller.
Switched to prime 4, great screen, zone out, frequent upgrades, built in hard drive not to mention streaming services. Also have SC5000s and X1850 mixer. After using Denon gear Pioneer would bore to death...no technology, just basic stuff.
Have you used the sc5000 with the prime?
I've been waiting for their new one as the prime 4 is pricey still....and was worried if I buy it the new one would be out...but the sc4 doesn't look anything near as good...plus the speaker and less functions....
Only good thing is that it's new and cheaper....
Maybe worth highlighting this to denon and they might update it
Very useful information! I was interested in the new Prime 4 + but this ( effects not working ) might just be a deal breaker for me considering that effects do work with an external source on a Pioneer XDJ-RX3. Thanks a lot.
Good video... i sent mine back 4 the same reasons and more shame good ideas just not ready
Buying a controller just to worry about hooking up a set of turntables up to it just makes no sense. Yes I know plenty of DJ's do it. But it's just overkill.
The go connects to the prime 4 and the the denon players without the screens so you can have 8 channels in use
Same happens on my xz if the setting on the turntable and xz aren't correct.
The little things '"they" don't tell you huh! Thanks bud👍👍
Think I’d rather just use a separate mixer all in ones will be a home install device and have separate mixer and decks to take out or a small controller
Do we get a BPM counter on the XDJ RZ when using turntables connected to it? I keep going back and forth between the prime 4 and RZ. My setup is mostly for home, I'm old school I don't use a computer I will probably just use a USB for channels 1&2 and turntables on 3&4. Maybe I should get into DJ software but I'm so old school that I wouldn't know where to start. I have mostly records and a ton of mp3's on a USB. I've been out of the scene for about 20 years since having kids and a wife
Yes
Would the prime 4 be a good replacement of my SZ. I need a new controller and I use virtual Dj
IS THE BEST OF THE BEST IF YOU KNOW HOW TO USE IT
Can I connect my prime 4 to my Akai MPC one ?
JUST BUY THE DENON X1850 TO RUN YOUR TURNTABLES. THE CONTROLLER IS A TOOL TO PLAY YOUR MP3 AND PERHAPS THE CDJ'S. AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT AN GOING TO DO, THE X1850 IS COMING TO RUN MY TURNTABLES. THE PRIME 4 IS TO TAKE A LONG MOBIL JUST IN CASE.
fix your capslock first.
@@m-stat9 Maybe he’s using a Denon keyboard… 🤪
@@m-stat9 Fix your smart-ass egotistical attitude. The Prime 4 is built as a software based standalone controller NOT a external input mixer. How often do you see DJs mixing with real vinyl(not DVS) using much effects. Old school vinyl mixing is usually more about beat juggling n scratching(turntablism) or just plain mixing/blending of tunes like Mala,Aphrodite,Roni Size,JKenzo. Their sets are all just blending tunes. If u want to use effects with vinyl buy a actual vinyl set up or a proper DVS set up such as Serato or Traktor. Real vinyl also doesn't have hot cues,loop function,roll,slicer,sync,etc,etc. I mean do you want a full Ableton Push,MPC controller, vinyl mixer with effects unit and a standalone software controller? Probably want it gold plated as well?! The Prime 4 is 1k cheaper in NZ dollars than the Pioneer XDJ 4 Channel. Pioneer is overpriced.
I don't mean to Diss you or put you down or anything like that mate. All djs should use there ears instead of technology 2:36
@djlab Can I use any reverb on denon while connecting an external instrument to the mixer line 3 and 4? I play cello and definitely need some reverbs while playing?
No. Only x1850 can do fx on input
Im kind of buying this thing to plug two technics…do you think if I buy an extra pre amp it will play louder ? It’s a real bummer :/
Actually I made another video. I think my headshells were not plugged in well
What if u hook up 2 lc6000 are the effects work then?
Works fine now people
Bun pioneer
did you change the db limiter in the settings?
No
how do you connect the SC6000 to the prime4? does it work like an extension?
No.. just as an external input
@@TheDJLab I think I read if you connect the sc6000 to the prime 4 via thernet (small switch to connect the 2) then they can sync beat (not sure if they can use the prime 4 as source too but I think they should
I love the : your going to have to mix oldschool and use your ears :)
This exactly why I quite DJing , a 5 year old can DJ now with this tech.
They got to do better than that!!!!! That much money it should do what you said ioit make sense!!!
It does have good volume with turntables if you have the settings right and decent cartridges. As for the effects not working with vinyl if you want effects with vinyl buy a DVS system that is made for vinyl,not a controller that is made for software controlling.
Hey :) thanks for your informative video . Ne completely different question I have and would be very happy if you could help me there: would you recommend 2 x JBL Partybox 1000 in combination with Prime 4 or SC6000 as a PA system? because they are easier to transport thought me get them to me but unfortunately do not know me technically with it . Would be happy about a short feedback. Kind regards
They are very bass heavy. Sound kind of muddy. No detail in vocals. Also DSP.alters sounds and causes slight delay. Need to mix in headphones
@@TheDJLab Do you have an e
recommendation for me? (Up to 200 people)
should'nt stuff just work out of the box ? my 1210's did
Please at least change the title, so that it isn't unfairly misleading.
@@InVisionsynthmindscape how is this misleading? I didn't say to not buy it I just said you should watch my video first before you do so you can be informed
@@TheDJLab "Don't buy" is misleading because people generally don't like it if they think that one wants to attract clicks as many do, on problems that in reality the machine doesn't have all of here, then everyone does what seems obvious to them.
A couple of years ago i tested the prime 4 against a pioneer setup. the soundquality of the denon was terrible. it sounded muffled and less dynamic.
Apple > Samsung. Pioneer > Denon. Just the way I see it.
Luckily not everyone. I love Apple and Denon, while Pioneer sucks.
@@m-stat9 Pioneer is quality but I is horrendously overpriced for the functionality you get for your money!
The XZ is hands down the best stand alone system to build on. it has everything the a CDJ3000+DJM900NXSii setup offers minus send return, in saying that you can still run an RMX1000 through a single channel limiting your ability to us it on all decks (I only use it occasionally so having a buildup limited to one deck isn't too bad. just need to keep in mind when mixing)
Thanks for the quick input as I'm actually considering this or the RX3 from Pioneer. The Prime 4 has that SSD slot underneath that would allow for a basically standalone controller with all your music.
I also like the built quality of Denon.
Tough decision.
I’m going through the same dilemma now!
@@chefshouse9481 I'm leaning towards the Prime 4. InMusic is good about updating firmware and the opposite is typically true about Pioneer.
The SSD slot wins the battle for the dilemma..
The phono stage on the P4 is superb. Using Q-bert Ortofons or even the basic Pro-S Ortofon carts, the level & sound from the phono stage on my P4 is stellar!! Perhaps you have low output needles? Something you def have wrong in this video, is that Mic 1 actually does have a 3-band eq. Mic 2 only has low & high eq. Overall the mixer section on most pioneer gear will be superior, (in terms of effects anyway). I use my turntables a lot with my P4 and honestly don't have an issue not having more effects. You make it sound like not having some type of bpm detection for external sources is a bad thing. If you gonna mix on vinyl, use your ears. No need for bpm if there's no effects to use it with. One thing that i feel people need to know about the P4 (IMHO) is the x-fader is a piece of crap. I've replaced it at least 10 times now. It lasts "maybe" a month with average use (Im not a scratch dj) but I use the x-fader for stabs & chirps etc...
Read the manual, its all there
Mais fácil achar uma mosca branca de olhos verdes do que uma Prime 2 ou 4 pra vender....
Acho que a Denon percebeu as cagadas que fez e decidiu não mais fabricar esta linha, pelo menos por enquanto...
Sem previsão de retorno, segundo a inMusic....
Hi there, would it be better to get two sc5000s and a x1800 mixer? I can find all of that used for the same price as the denon prime 4.
No..I like prime 4 better
Use the phono switch input. The level changes in the blue. You don’t buy a Prime4 for use with vinyls. It’s not not a rap/hiphop device. The audio quality is better than Pioneer devices, which I like too
Exactly
He is using it. If its not set to phono it wouldn't be listenable.
Bro just read the manual stated clearly what it can and can do.
Bro... some people rather watch a video. The numbers clearly show.
@@TheDJLab Bro... some people rather make clickbait videos, like you.
The thing is, you normally don’t get to read the manual before you buy.
@@SuppeUrt All manuals are online,just like these videos made by people who don't know how to use the settings in their controllers and buy decent cartridges for their turntables!
Thx 🙏 for this Information ✅
If there is one thing where PIONEER is the world worst brand in the world... is PHONO...and as in PREAMPS...
Since effects from channel 1 and 4 don’t work via phono/line in.
I’m guessing if you record your vinyls, you can still use those effects, on your digitally catalogued versions.
Thanks
I using this deck also with VirtualDJ, no issues. It’s a amazing deck for me.
Good stuff. The FX limitations for external inputs could very well influence purchasing decisions. You don’t learn this from reading specs in web shops or from normal review videos. And most people don’t read the manual before purchasing. Personally, I thought that the FX were proper hardware FX like on mixers. But the Engine OS is really “just” a custom PC and DJ SW built into a controller.
Interesting "Engine OS" - hadnt heard of its name yet.
But then I’m pretty sure on the xz you can’t have different effects on different channels overall I think the Denon kills it
@@djovercut Engine OS is the operating system for the controller and Engine Desktop is prep software you use on a normal computer.
Went with the prime 4 ..AMAZING UNIT And WOW GREAT INFO
Can you connect a Pioneer RMX1000 to the Prime 4? If so, could that solve the FX issue for external devices?
You could via the master out,, but unlike the Pioneer DJM range, you don't have the send and return feature to utilise the rmx1000 fully. This is something I've already considered. For the limited functionality in respect of, the rmx500 would be the better option, but again this effect would be global and not channel specific.
Best controller I’ve ever owned!
Decent unit as long as you don't use it regularly. The Play buttons failing are becoming a joke.
I'm starting to see why Pioneer are still the industry standard players. Why spend nearly £2k on a Prime 4, to use a few times a month at home, only for the deck play buttons to start becoming unresponsive, or need hammering just to start your track up. The amount of times this has caught me out now takes the biscuit to be honest.
The one I have on loan has been getting used for past 4 years and had over 100 djs use it. Still running strong.
@@TheDJLab It's hit and miss apparently. The Denon forum has several cases.
Phono is low because it’s a line input?
No...it was switched to phono on back. I've since done a new video about the preamps and they seems to be in now. Might have been bad connection on my headshell.
Well, it is a stand alone controller which wasn’t built to work with anything else, god knows why they even put line inputs on it 😂😂
Ya...I wonder why as well
I wouldn’t buy it, I have a laptop, stand alone bollocks.
@@kingsleyrussell348 It's standalone so you don't need a laptop. The point is so you are not looking sideways to browse thru your track library,look at waveforms etc like you would with a controller with a laptop. When using a controller with a laptop you have to look at it takes away from having more interaction with the crowd. If you need to use your laptop for anything apart from to store your tunes n browse thru your library n select your tunes then you can't DJ properly IMO. You should be able to beat match by ear,it's the number 1/fundamental DJ skill that every DJ should learn 1st and foremost.