Introduction

This is the Pioneer DDJ-FLX4: a simple, budget-oriented, handsome little DJ controller meant as an apparent replacement to the popular DDJ-400. One important difference is that it gives beginners the option of trying both Serato and Rekordbox software without committing to them. In addition to Rekordbox performance mode, you get free use of Serato DJ Lite, which is upgradable via a Serato DJ Pro subscription.

Regardless of the software you are using, you get access to the streaming services: TIDAL, Beatport and Beatsource, and SoundCloud Go+, provided if you have the appropriate subscriptions, of course.

Soon (early 2023), a major update will be coming to the iOS and Android versions of the Rekordbox app, allowing you to use the FLX4 to perform with it. It will even let you do this over Bluetooth, which is a pretty neat proposition. This controller could potentially feel a bit like a standalone DJ system, in the sense that you don’t have to have a laptop in the way. (I mean, who doesn’t have their phone on them at all times?)

There are also a few exclusive features – namely, Smart Fader and Smart CFX – intended to help very green, beginner DJs start mixing and making cool-sounding sets from day 1.

The DDJ-FLX4 comes with a $299 price tag, making it a sister controller to the already-released DDJ-REV1.

Layout & Features

• Multi-platform (Rekordbox/Serato)
• Multi-device compatibility (PC/Mac/Mobile)
• DJ on mobile via Bluetooth (COMING EARLY 2023)
• Compatible with major streaming services
• USB audio output of mic audio
• SMART CFX & SMART FADER

The FLX4 has a matte finish and looks sharp in this dark grey color. All the knobs and faders feel of appropriate quality to the price range; you won’t mistake it for a DJM-900NXS2, but you also wouldn’t expect to.

Loops are engaged by in/out buttons located above the jog wheels. You can opt instead for the 4-beat loop button, which you can then halve or double using buttons just to the right.

Pioneer made it a point to route the mic audio of the FLX4 to the USB audio output of the device, to make for easy interaction between DJ and audience during live streams or recordings.

Smart CFX is a one-knob solution for creating complex FX without hassle. And then there’s Smart Fader, which is a semi-automatic transition tool. Artists can effortlessly transition between tracks with a simple glide of the crossfader or channel faders. After sliding the fader, the DDJ-FLX4 automatically adjusts the track’s BPM, volume, bass volume, and other aspects of the music to create a seamless transition into the next song.

These features allow for some hand-holding for “super-beginner” DJs, while still allowing them to make interesting-sounding sets. In the meantime, as you grow, the FLX4 will grow with you.

Competition

• DDJ-REV1
• Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX
• Reloop Ready
• Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3

The most obvious comparison is to the DDJ-REV1, released by Pioneer DJ earlier this year. While they share a similar price point, they have slightly different design philosophies.

The FLX4 sets you up for a potential future with a CDJ and DJM mixer, festival, or club type of setup. In contrast, the REV1 is an entry point to the turntable style of mixing for Serato DJs possibly interested in scratching.

As far as Serato controllers from other brands go, you might be comparing it with the Numark Mixtrack Platinum FX or the Reloop Ready. The Numark has a leg-up on the FLX4 in a few minor ways, such as displays in the middle of the jog wheels that give track position info, and those massively long pitch faders. It also uses paddle-style FX, if that’s your preference.

The Reloop Ready is worth a mention because of its functionality for the space. It’s designed to rest perfectly on top of a 13” laptop keyboard, it’s USB-powered, contains 16 RGB pads, 9 performance modes, and traditional controller-style FX up top.

One platform we haven’t mentioned yet in this video is Traktor, and for that, you’d be looking at the Kontrol S2.

Misses

• No jog displays
• Limited connectivity (no booth or XLR, etc.)

Final Thoughts

The DDJ-FLX4 is a great starter controller. It’s geared towards beginners or hobbyists, especially those who may be undecided about their platform. It’s a controller that you can grow with. 

At the start, maybe you don’t even know how to mix. Perhaps you don’t know what beatmatching is, or even the sync button, and you don’t know what makes a good transition. But you’re determined to learn and you want to learn on something real, something that will function perfectly well as a DJ controller with professional software in which you can start building a library. In other words, if you’re a “super-beginner”, this is a great choice. 

That aside, it’s also a solid option for someone who’s looking for a “backup” controller, or just something very portable. Again, the fact that the upcoming mobile app updates will turn these into a pseudo-standalone is especially appealing for a $300 price tag

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