Introduction

The DDJ-REV1 is a “scratch style” 2-channel DJ controller from Pioneer DJ, featuring a layout reminiscent of a battle DJ setup. Similar to a DJM-S series mixer, it features FX paddles for quick engagement.

In other words, it’s a Serato controller with a design meant to emulate a professional Pioneer scratch mixer + PLX turntable setup, and it includes special features for open-format and scratch DJs alike. (Decks 3 and 4 are accessible via toggle button).

The level of value you get from this DJ controller is undeniable. It’s impressive how far we’ve come in the DJ hardware industry, considering the quality and features available for a mere $279. Its price and accessibility makes it a perfect match for a beginner DJ, especially (but not limited to) those who are interested in learning to scratch.

Layout And Features

Ergonomically speaking, the DDJ-REV1 is solid. One large benefit of “battle” orientation (meaning that the pitch faders are located above the platters, rather than beside) is the rather large jog wheel size. In fact, they are the same size as those found on the upper-range DDJ-SR2.

Being someone who has used DJ controllers for as long as they’ve existed, I appreciate both the size and smooth quality of these jog wheels. This is not what platters used to feel like on $280 controllers.

The pitch faders themselves have plenty of throw at 60mm (which is longer than those found on the DDJ-SB3) and are located where a traditional controller would have FX controls. On this controller, FX are engaged via paddles (flip up to stay on, or hold down temporarily) and the pads are centered underneath them.

The REV1 is the correct size, shape, and weight for this category of controller. It’s perfect for beginners who will be moving it from desk to desk, and from small gig to small gig. It’s appropriately portable, without feeling compromised. The portability is helped by the fact that it’s entirely powered by the USB port.

If you’re already a scratch DJ and you have large hands, you may find the controller to be slightly cramped. When Fatty Lumpkin was filming his scratch demo in the above video, he did accidentally hit the Play/Pause once or twice. But, he quickly got used to this, as you will.

The crossfader itself functioned perfectly well while we were giving it a workout. It wasn’t nearly as butter-smooth or quiet as a Magvel Fader Pro that you’d actually find on a DJM-S mixer, but we had no problem getting sharp cuts, though the black finish did start to wear quickly (as it does on all-black DJ gear).

Overall, the build quality feels really good for a budget controller. All pads, levers, and knobs give responsive feedback, and your hands quickly learn where everything is on the controller’s surface

Why the “Battle Orientation”?

Traditional DJ controllers have often had their software FX controls located at the top left and right of the device, centered over the jog wheels. There may be 3 parameter knobs, a wet/dry knob, and a series of on/off buttons. While this allows for a certain level of complexity, it’s not always great for quick dexterity movements (such as those performed by turntablists).

Whether or not you’re a scratch DJ, you can reap the benefits of this layout. I find myself growing more and more fond of “paddle FX”, just because of their simplicity and ease of use. Paddles are simply fun to use, and it’s easy to see what’s happening at a glance.

It seems like more and more of the market is going this way, so it will be interesting to follow the trend in the coming year or two as more manufacturers adopt this FX style.

If your eventual goal is to get something like a DJM-S11 and a set of turntables, the REV1 is clearly the start of that path. But even if it’s not, it’s a great budget option.

Tracking Scratch

An exclusive feature to this mixer, Tracking Scratch allows you to do two things: The first is an automatic pullback function, where a sample plays from a cue point as soon as you let go of the platter. When you touch it again, it jumps back to the cue point. This means you can play the jog wheel like a sampler, and also restore a sample to the beginning without pulling it back or working the crossfader.

The second part of this feature allows you to automatically “transform” whatever you’re scratching. In other words, it makes it sound like you’re working the crossfader when you’re not.

This is indeed a bit of a cheater feature, but it has some cool uses. Firstly, if you’re new to scratching, this is a nice way to add some cool scratch effects to your mixing while you’re on the journey to learning turntable skills. On top of that, it can be used as a creative effect in its own right. (Check the video above for examples of auto-transform effects being used creatively).

Final Thoughts

The $279 price point is a competitive one, and there’s always a new device taking the crown for “best budget DJ controller”. Currently, I believe this is the best the market has to offer for that price.

It’s got everything you need to start mixing and playing DJ gigs, and is a perfect introduction for DJs who might be moving away from that traditional software-focused controller layout (while still feeling like they are using something familiar).

This is the type of controller where you look at it, and it’s perfectly clear what everything does. This is crucial for a device that will often be used by beginners, or by people who value its “pick-up-and-go” nature.

No matter where you are on your journey – whether you just need something portable as a Serato user, or it’s your first ever DJ controller – the REV1 is a solid choice and recommended option.

Your Turn

We put a lot of love into these reviews to serve you, our friends, and the global community of DJs.

If you found this useful, please support by

• Sharing this post on your socials (or texting it to another DJ who’ll benefit)
• Leaving a comment below with what you’re most excited about the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 (or why it’s still not what you’re looking for)
• Subscribing to the Passionate DJ Podcast
• And if you are looking to pick up the Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV1 (or any other gear), consider purchasing from The DJ Hookup, who makes this possible. Ask us for below-advertised pricing and we’ll be happy to hook you up!