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First Look: Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3 Serato Controller

It may look pretty similar to the DDJ-SX2, but Pioneer DJ's new Serato controller, the DDJ-SX3, has lots of improvements that make it particularly appealing for mobile DJs.

We were invited to Pioneer DJ’s top secret central London studio to get a first quick review of the brand-new Pioneer DJ DDJ-SX3, a Serato DJ Pro controller that builds on the success of the DDJ-SX2 with three mic channels plus separate mic utility app, dual USB inputs for two-laptop DJing, and four Sound Color FX.

Watch this on YouTube.

It’s primarily likely to be a hit with mobile DJs, especially those who DJ weddings and need several mics – although it may also find favour with DJs who combine elements of live performance especially vocals, such as beatboxing, with their tune spinning.

Of course we’ll bring you a full hands-on review as soon as we can, but for now I’ve made you a headline features run-through in the exclusive video above, plus here is a list of some of the talking points:

  • Comes with Serato DJ Pro including Flip and Pitch ‘n Time DJ – but you’ll need to pay extra for the DVS upgrade if you want to use with external turntables
  • Three Mic inputs – with finer control via a separate mic utility by Pioneer DJ
  • Dual USB ports – for laptop switchovers
  • Sound Color FX – onboard and hardware, meaning they work with all sources (including two of the three mics)
  • Jogwheels, reduced latency being claimed by Pioneer DJ compared to those on the DDJ-SX2
  • Beatgrid adjust buttons replaced by key shift buttons
  • Serato Flip (licence included)
  • Crossfader appears to be not as easy to replace as on the SX2

You can also check out Pioneer DJ’s own promo video as well as photos below.

Promo Video

Photo Gallery

• The unit will retail for £969 / €1099 / US$999, and is available imminently. Check the Pioneer DJ site for more details.

Do you like the look of this? Do the new features excite tyou? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Phil Morse: Phil Morse is the founder of Digital DJ Tips. His DJ career has taken him from a 15-year residency in Manchester, England, to the main room at Privilege in Ibiza - the world's biggest club. He is also an award-winning club promoter, and has taught music tech and DJing since 2010. He regularly speaks at DJ seminars and events worldwide.
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