The Pioneer Dj Ddj-rev1 2-deck Serato Dj Controller bursts onto the scene as a groundbreaking entry-level option, uniquely embracing the “battle layout” favored by scratch and performance DJs. For the first time, beginner DJs can experience this professional configuration in a compact, accessible format. While the performance pads might feel a tad small for some, the DDJ-REV1 largely hits the right notes, making it a highly recommended starting point for aspiring turntablists and open-format DJs alike.
Specifications
Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 Serato Controller
- Price: $279 / £279 / €279
- Rating: 4/5
- Product type: DJ controller
- Launched: January 2022
- Power: Mains
- Size: 526 x 256 x 59 mm
- Weight: 2.1 kg
- Official Website
First Impressions: A Battle-Ready Layout for Beginners
Don’t let the all-plastic construction of the DDJ-REV1 fool you; this Serato DJ controller boasts a surprisingly robust build quality. Its portability makes it an excellent secondary unit for even seasoned professionals. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the innovative deck layout. Pioneer DJ has boldly reimagined the traditional controller design, rotating the decks 90 degrees to mirror the setup preferred by battle and scratch DJs. This means you’ll find the play/pause buttons in the bottom right corner and horizontal pitch sliders at the top – a layout previously unseen in beginner controllers. This intuitive design choice is a game-changer for aspiring scratch DJs, providing a familiar and professional feel right from the start.
Close-up highlighting the play/pause, cue buttons, and horizontal pitch fader on the DDJ-REV1, emphasizing its battle-style turntable layout.
Further enhancing the battle-style experience is the mixer section, reminiscent of縮 miniature scratch mixer. It features a clean, uncluttered lower third for optimal crossfader access, performance pads positioned above, and EQ controls arranged in the style of the acclaimed Pioneer DJ DJM-S7/S9 mixers. This thoughtful design creates a seamless transition for DJs looking to eventually move to professional battle mixers.
The DDJ-REV1 is purely a controller, focusing on software integration without standalone inputs. It unlocks Serato DJ Lite right out of the box and is also compatible with Serato DJ Pro for users seeking a more advanced software experience.
Setting Up Your DDJ-REV1: Ready to DJ in Minutes
Getting started with the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 is incredibly straightforward. Simply download Serato DJ Lite from the Serato website, connect the controller to your computer via USB, and plug in your headphones and speakers. For ultimate portability, you can even DJ directly through your laptop speakers.
The included Serato DJ Lite software seamlessly integrates with your existing music library and also supports popular streaming services like TIDAL, Beatport Streaming, Beatsource Streaming, and SoundCloud Go+. This gives you access to millions of tracks, allowing for diverse and dynamic DJ sets.
In Action: Performance and Features
Jog Wheels and Deck Control
The DDJ-REV1 is a joy to use, thanks to its responsive and generously sized jog wheels. While they lack the central displays and motorized platters of the higher-end DDJ-REV7, they offer a significant improvement over controllers like the DDJ-SB3. The jog wheels are perfect for scratching, beatmatching, and precise track manipulation.
Conveniently placed above the jog wheels are dedicated loop controls and deck switching buttons, allowing you to control up to four virtual decks within Serato DJ Lite. Despite the software limitations, this 4-deck capability adds a layer of versatility for creative mixing. The top of the decks also house essential controls like sync, master volume (right deck), and headphone volume (left deck).
GIF showcasing the deck switching functionality between decks 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the DDJ-REV1 in Serato DJ Lite, demonstrating its extended mixing capabilities.
Mixer Section: Spacious Layout, Compact Pads
The mixer section of the DDJ-REV1 Serato controller stands out for its width, providing an unusually spacious layout for a controller in this class. This generous spacing makes the faders and knobs feel less cramped and more professional. However, this wider mixer does result in smaller performance pads – a trade-off to consider.
The mixer is equipped with three-band EQ, trim controls, and a rotary encoder with load buttons for intuitive library browsing and track loading. Staying true to its battle mixer inspiration, the DDJ-REV1 places effects and performance pad controls within easy reach in the mixer section.
Effects: Creative Tools at Your Fingertips
Unlike some minimalist entry-level controllers, the DDJ-REV1 doesn’t skimp on effects. It offers dual effects engines, each capable of controlling three simultaneous effects. You can easily select and adjust effects directly from the controller, fine-tuning the effect cycle value to your liking. A single effects level knob provides overall intensity control.
The standout feature in the effects section is the inclusion of paddle FX levers. These paddles, commonly found on professional scratch mixers, offer tactile and intuitive control over effect activation, allowing for momentary or latched effect triggering. This feature significantly enhances creative expression and mirrors the functionality of high-end battle mixers. Dedicated filter knobs per channel are also included, adding another layer of sonic manipulation.
GIF demonstrating the paddle effects function on the DDJ-REV1, highlighting its ease of use for creative effect manipulation during DJ sets.
Performance Pads: Unleash Your DJ Skills
The rubberized performance pads on the DDJ-REV1 provide access to essential DJ functions like Hot Cues, Auto Loop, Sampler, and the innovative “Scratch Bank” feature – previously exclusive to higher-end Serato gear. You also get the classic Transform effect for rhythmic gating.
While the pads are functional, their smaller size and single-color backlighting might be a drawback for some DJs with larger fingers or those accustomed to more spacious pads. Upgrading to Serato DJ Pro unlocks additional pad modes like Beat Jump and Roll, expanding creative possibilities.
Despite the size, the pads introduce a groundbreaking feature for beginners: “Tracking.” This intelligent function automatically manipulates the crossfader in pre-programmed patterns, enabling users to create impressive scratch effects without needing advanced scratching techniques. This feature is particularly effective with scratch samples and opens up the world of scratch DJing to newcomers.
Angle shot of the DDJ-REV1 performance pads section, emphasizing their functionality within a compact controller layout.
Additional Features: Microphone Input and Metering
The DDJ-REV1 incorporates thoughtful features that enhance usability. The clear and informative level meters display per-channel levels, providing crucial visual feedback for gain staging. A particularly useful feature for live streamers is the microphone input, which is routed through USB to the computer, simplifying livestreaming setups.
It’s worth noting the headphone jack is 1/8″, so users with 1/4″ headphones will require an adapter. This is a common consideration for entry-level gear.
Conclusion: A New Standard for Entry-Level Battle DJing
The Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 confidently steps in as the successor to the popular DDJ-SB3, marking a significant shift in Pioneer DJ’s entry-level Serato DJ controller offerings. Pioneer DJ’s continued commitment to Serato is a welcome sign, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to cater to diverse DJ preferences. The REV1 clearly carves out a niche as the “battle layout” counterpart to Rekordbox-focused controllers, which retain the traditional “club layout.”
While Rekordbox controllers might offer slightly more software power out-of-the-box, the DDJ-REV1’s unique battle-style design and Serato integration make it a compelling choice, especially for DJs drawn to scratching and open-format styles. Upgrading to Serato DJ Pro unlocks even more potential, but the DDJ-REV1 provides a fantastic and feature-rich experience even with Serato DJ Lite.
For aspiring DJs looking to develop battle-style skills, explore scratching, or simply desire a controller that mirrors professional scratch setups, the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 2-deck Serato DJ controller is an outstanding entry point. It provides the foundation to build muscle memory for battle-style setups, paving the way for future upgrades to the DDJ-REV7 or even traditional turntables and mixers. Overall, the DDJ-REV1 is a worthy successor and a strong contender in the entry-level DJ controller market, particularly for Serato enthusiasts.
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