As a content creator for Pioneer Technology and, more importantly, a working DJ, I wanted to share my practical experience transitioning from the industry-standard Pioneer Djm 900 Nexus 2 to the newer DJM-A9. This isn’t a technical specification breakdown; for those detailed figures, I’d recommend checking the official Pioneer DJ website. Instead, this is a real-world perspective from behind the decks, focusing on what these mixers offer DJs in performance scenarios.
Initially, the DJM-A9 raised eyebrows, especially considering its price point. Visually, the changes seemed subtle. The question was: could the upgrade from the trusted Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 truly justify the investment? Facing the choice between servicing my reliable NXS2 or embracing the new A9, I opted for the upgrade. After several weeks of hands-on use, here are my insights.
Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 on the left compared to the Pioneer DJM A9 on the right, highlighting the size difference and layout of the professional DJ mixers.
Sound Quality: A Noticeable Leap Forward from the DJM 900 Nexus 2?
Having spent a day with students pushing the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 to its limits, the immediate switch to the DJM-A9 was revealing. The sound quality was undeniably superior – a genuine “wow” moment. Even through our studio monitors, KRK Rokit 5s, the difference was stark. This immediately made me excited to experience the A9 in a club environment. If the improvement was this clear on smaller speakers, the potential on a professional sound system was immense. The audio fidelity of the DJM-A9 represents a significant step up, even from the already excellent Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2.
Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth, and Modern DJ Setups
The inclusion of USB-C alongside the standard USB-B is a welcome update. It reflects the shift towards USB-C in modern laptops, eliminating the need for adapters – a small but crucial convenience for DJs on the go. Beyond the standard Line, Phono, Digital, and USB connections, the DJM-A9 introduces Bluetooth. Initially, Bluetooth on a professional DJ mixer seemed perplexing. While useful for home listening, its application in a DJ booth seemed questionable. The concern is the potential influx of track requests via Bluetooth, potentially disrupting professional sets. Latency could also be an issue for live mixing. However, for pre-gig preparation or home practice, Bluetooth offers a convenient way to connect devices wirelessly.
Microphone Inputs: Enhanced Features for Vocalists and MCs
The microphone inputs on the DJM-A9 have received substantial upgrades. Phantom power support is a significant addition, enabling the use of studio-quality condenser microphones. Furthermore, dedicated microphone effects – Reverb, Echo, Pitch, and Megaphone – offer creative vocal processing possibilities. These mic FX can be combined with the standard beat FX, opening up exciting avenues for vocal performances and MCs, a feature not as comprehensively available on the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2.
Dual Headphones Outputs: Practicality for Collaborative DJing
The A and B headphone jacks are a brilliant feature for back-to-back DJ sets. Sharing a DJ booth often involves headphone juggling, and the dual output eliminates potential awkwardness and interruptions. In a recent back-to-back set on a Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2, a fellow DJ using the mini-jack input caused disruption while cueing. The A9’s dual headphone system directly addresses this, streamlining collaborative performances and enhancing the DJ experience.
Color FX: Center Lock and the Evolving Crush Effect
A notable addition to the Color FX section is the center lock for the parameter knob. This is a fantastic feature, providing more control and preventing accidental over-adjustments, especially during breakdowns. While the FX on/off button on the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 offered an alternative, the center lock provides a more nuanced control option. However, the “Crush” effect has changed significantly. It now feels much more intense, almost too aggressive, with a drastic bitrate reduction even at minimal settings. This intensity, while potentially impactful, requires a cautious approach in club environments. The “Gate” effect within the Sweep FX, a favorite for creating rhythmic patterns with Echo on the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2, is absent, replaced by what seems to be a notch filter. While experimentation is needed, the loss of the Gate effect is a noticeable change for DJs accustomed to its creative applications. The altered Crush effect and the replaced Gate might make DJs attached to the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2‘s color FX section feel a bit hesitant initially.
Faders & EQs: Smoothness and Enhanced Ergonomics
The faders and EQs on the DJM-A9 feel exceptionally smooth, a testament to the build quality, even if it’s the honeymoon period of a new mixer. The hope is this smoothness endures through heavy use. The EQs remain precise, but the increased spacing in the layout improves ergonomics, making adjustments feel more natural and comfortable compared to the slightly more compact Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2. The Magvel Fader returns, catering to scratch DJs, although crossfader use isn’t central to all mixing styles. Booth monitor EQ settings are a new addition, offering fine-tuning for monitor sound. While not immediately essential for all DJs, it could be beneficial in specific booth environments, though many might find the standard booth output sufficient, as was often the case with the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2.
Beat FX: A Shift in Selection and a Standout Triplet Filter
The Beat FX section sees some significant changes. The beloved “Slip Roll” effect from the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 is gone, a disappointing loss for DJs who utilized it for vocal manipulation and rhythmic variations. Initially, the new “Mobius” effect seemed perplexing, creating a looping, almost chaotic sound. However, with experimentation, its potential emerges, especially when combined with Color FX like Reverb or Dub Echo. The “Triplet Roll” is a cool addition, catering to triplet-based rhythms. But the standout new effect is the “Triplet Filter.” This effect is incredibly versatile and inspiring, perfect for build-ups, vocal modulation, or subtle textures on loops. Its parameter control allows for LFO-like modulation, adding dynamic movement to mixes. The larger screen in the Beat FX section is a notable improvement, offering more visual feedback and precision when adjusting parameters. The X-Pad is also refined for easier use. Dedicated channel select buttons for Send and Return are a fantastic addition, enabling flexible routing of external FX units like the RMX-1000 to different channels alongside the internal Beat FX, significantly expanding creative possibilities beyond the routing capabilities of the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2. While some effects are carried over from the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 with performance tweaks, the Echo now includes a tape delay effect when adjusting timing, complementing the enhanced X-Pad control.
Conclusion: Is the DJM-A9 a Worthy Successor to the DJM 900 Nexus 2?
The DJM-A9 offers a clear step up in sound quality and introduces several workflow enhancements. While the removal of Slip Roll and changes to some Color FX might require adjustment for DJs deeply familiar with the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2, the new features, particularly the Triplet Filter and improved Beat FX control, alongside the enhanced connectivity and microphone inputs, make the DJM-A9 a compelling upgrade. For DJs seeking the latest technology and improved sonic performance, the DJM-A9 is a worthy successor, building upon the legacy of the Pioneer DJM 900 Nexus 2 while forging its own path forward.
