DDJ SB2 or MC4000?

I’d say the SB is a starter controller, the MC4000 is as pro-grade as the MC6000mk2, just in a 2-deck/2-channel and less cluttered version.

I would think you have two options (well you have millions, but effectively imho):
1) Buy yourself one of the controllers on our starter list:
a) Pioneer SB
b) Numark Mixtrack Pro (any type but preferably the 2 or 3)
c) Denon MC2000
d) Reloop Beatmix 2
My suggestion would be to get one used. There should be a fair amount of them around. Since they will most likely have seen only bedroom use, chances are more than fair that they are in good shape. And if you have someone who is disappointed in DJ-ing, they might even be almost new for a fraction of the cost.
This gives you a cheap step into controller use and you can still sell them 6 months down the line without losing too much on them even.
2) Buy the MC4000 and be done with it for the foreseeable future (you won’t outgrow this controller quickly and as Todd said, it’s built like a tank and will most likely outlive you 😀 ).

The thing is that buying a controller is something that is directly linked to your workflow. That dictates first your choice of software, then the choice of controller (in between there is a budget decision as well).

You may find that you want to check out other software when you have a controller. You may not be quite sure about what your workflow will be like (when using a controller setup).

Option 1) then gives you a cheap entry into controller use, the chance to try out other software (most will let you use Serato Intro, VDJ, Mixvibes Cross and even Traktor (don’t though!)) and to figure out what it is you do want and need in your next controller, which might then no longer be the MC4000. No or very little money invested and wasted and when you start spending the serious bucks you have better assurance that it will be on the gear that is right for you.

I’d even spend some of the money you are not initially spending on a new controller on the How To Digital DJ Fast course here. It will help you kickstart a practice regimen with your controller that prevents you from lots of trial and error.

Just my two cents, as usual.

Still a lot better than the SB which has NO meters at all :D. But yeah, them only being master output level meters is a missed opportunity. I have no idea if that is something fixable with a firmware upgrade.
Another feature the MC4000 has that you will find on very few other (including all Pioneer) controllers is the split cue option, which is VERY handy if you need to mix in your headphones for whatever reason.

Ok, over here (Netherlands) I have seen some pretty low priced starter controllers. And we have heard stories here about readers that picked up really cheap used gear.

As for build quality. Without being too unfriendly to Pioneer, but Denon build quality exceeds that of Pioneer (with a margin I might add). And frankly, Pioneer isn’t THAT known for their build quality although it depends on who you ask.

As for the software. Like most midi controllers you can indeed map them to most software. Exceptions are Traktor, technically possible but works way better with Native Instruments/Traktor gear and Serato, your controller needs to be supported – but lately the number of supported controllers has increased tremendously. VDJ and Mixvibes Cross have good support for lots of different controllers or the option of (simply) creating your own mapping. VDJ definitely in the lead there though.

Having said that, it takes time to prep your tracks properly in your software (cues, loops, beat grids and such) and not always can you transfer that hard work when you switch to another software platform. Also there is a learning curve and “muscle memory” involved in getting to know your software intimately, you’d have to do that all over too. I switched a couple of years ago and I won’t switch again unless there is a very good reason.