General
If you're looking for a DJ controller that has been specifically designed for Serato DJ, you have various options to choose from. Take the Pioneer DDJ SB, for instance, a two-channel starter model that's more compact than its two siblings, but has the same intuitive controls. The DDJ SB comes with Serato DJ Intro software and can be used in a plug-and-play fashion. Simply connect the controller to your computer with a USB cable and you can instantly use the loops, hotcues, samples and effects of Serato DJ Intro. Upgrade your software to Serato DJ and you get access to even more functions and effects. Would you like to benefit from the power of Serato DJ and the renowned quality of Pioneer? The DDJ SB controller is an excellent place to start.
Filter Fade
The DDJ SB is the first controller with the Filter Fade function on board - a great feature for beginners that combines a high-pass filter with a crossfader, ensuring smooth transitions between tracks. More advanced DJs will also enjoy this function as it leaves one of your hands free to control other effects or functions. Use the controller's eight performance to make remixes, for instance, work the sensitive jog wheels or experiment with the high/low-pass filter. For every function in Serato DJ Intro you'll find a button, knob or fader on the DDJ SB, allowing for an intuitive workflow. Per channel, you can assign four different functions to the controller's rubber pads: selecting hotcues, creating automatic loops of 1, 2, 4 or 8 measures, manually starting loops, and sampling. The sampler function allows you to trigger up to four stored sounds.
Details
Pioneer's DDJ SB is more compact than its siblings, but has a robust, solid feel. The controller is powered via its USB connector and can therefore be used anywhere. At the back you'll find a stereo RCA output which allows you to send your signal to an amplifier or a set of active monitors. A headphone connector and a microphone input with volume control are located on the side. Three-band tone controls and a combined high/low-pass filter are at your disposal per channel, as are two effect sections, which can be operated by means of the three buttons above the jog wheels and a rotary knob for effect parameter control. The DDJ SB's browse knob, meanwhile, allows you to navigate your music library, and tracks can be uploaded with a simple push of a button.
Tips or comments about this product
Please note:
- Unlike those of the DDJ-SX, the DDJ-SB's jog wheels are not illuminated.
- This product comes with Serato DJ Intro software. For the full version of Serato DJ you need to purchase an upgrade.
- A number of important software features, such as recording and MIDI mapping, are not included in Serato DJ Intro.