Pioneer DDJ-SX2 Review

Our Thoughts on the Pioneer DDJ-SX2

Make sure that you read this quick review of the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 mixing gear until the very end. We will talk about some really important things about it. By the time you’re through reading this, we hope that you have a much better idea on whether or not this product is what you need.


Key Features

There are a couple of things about the DDJ-SX2 that make it attention-grabbing. First, it brandishes a brand known to produce legit audio equipment. Second, the unit’s massive body is flooded with knobs, pads, sliders and a couple of large jog wheels. Here are the top features of the Pioneer DDJ-SX2:

  • Compatible with Serato. The unit allows DJs access to controllers dedicated to the Serato software. It comes with the lite version, although upgrading to the pro version is very much possible — for a price, of course. But what’s really nice about the DDJ-SX2 is that it’s fully compatible with the Serato Flip expansion pack that allows for more creativity and productivity.
  • Hot cue countdown. As the feature’s name suggests, it’s something that allows you to mix tracks with better precision. This allows for cleaner sonic masterpieces that are cleaner and more professional sounding. The unit’s hot cue countdown comes as a part of the jog wheels, which are leaps and bounds better than those on the DDJ-SX, the DDJ-SX2’s predecessor.
  • Multiple connectivity options. The front side panel of this mixing gear by Pioneer houses a variety of ports and hubs. Such serves as a testament to the fact that there’s practically never a shortage of components that you can use with the Pioneer DDJ-SX2, from headphones to PA systems.

What We Like

Bragging aside, we have an impressive DJing experience and also reviewed a wide variety of DJ equipment in the market. This is why we can confirm that the DDJ-SX2 by Pioneer is never shy of important and remarkable tools that DJs need. These are just some of those that we really like:

  • Colorful pads. There are a total of 16 pads found on the interface, equally divided between the 2 decks. Other than being programmable to allow better control, these pads also light up in different colors — they let you know exactly where they are and which ones of them to hit even in the dimmest of venues.
  • Upgradable. If you’re a die-hard fan of Serato and you intend to rely on it for the rest of your music career, you will love that the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 is capable of being upgraded to the Serato DVS software. Because of this, you can rest assured that the mixing gear can keep on providing what you need as your DJ skills and choice of utilities expand.
  • Professional. If we had to use just a single word to describe the DDJ-SX2, that would be “professional”. All you have to do is take a quick look at the unit to know why. Beginners may be intimidated to lay their hands on this beauty by Pioneer as it’s simply loaded with buttons, switches, sliders and knobs.

Who is This Product Best Suited To

There’s no doubt in our minds that the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 is intended for professional DJs. This is especially true for those that eat, sleep and breathe Serato — the product is fully compatible with the software’s lite and pro versions, and it’s also designed for the Flip and DVS version. Needless to say, the DDJ-SX2 is a future-proof gear.

Unfortunately, if you are a casual DJ performer you might want to look for another unit, preferably something that has a lot fewer features and a cheaper price tag. But if you are planning on becoming a superstar one day, feel free to get your hands on the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 and devote enough time to mastering it.

What Customers are Saying

A lot of professional DJs who bought the DDJ-SX2 love that it comes from a reputable manufacturer. This gives them the assurance that it can perform very well and take quite a beating, too. However, it’s the sheer number of features that really leaves them completely satisfied with their purchase. However, the product doesn’t come with a cheap price tag. It’s also on the hefty side of things, which means that it’s not the most portable option around.

The Bottom Line

Undeniably, the Pioneer DDJ-SX2 is designed for professional DJs. It’s also geared towards Serato fans as it packs controls that are dedicated to the said DJing software.

Read our breakdown on the Best DJ Controllers >>