Pioneer DDJ-SR Professional & Compact Serato DJ Controller Review Video 

This was my very first controller I purchased back in 2016 and I still have it to this day

just bought this. i sold my traktor s4...it just wasn't for me. but DAMN! this just changed the game for me. i feel so much more comfortable with this controller + serato. smooth faders, knobs, the pads are great. the jog wheels feel very similar to CDJs. nice, sturdy build. i'm so glad i bough this ya'll,

Thank you DJ booth This is for sure one of the best how to video thank you for taking the time out or showing us what everything does. DJ trucker from Southern California 🚛 🚛

I just got my DDJ-SR and I'm learning how to get it all going. Thanks for the video!

This is such a fuckin’ gem. I’m currently going through DJ history so as to further the knowledge I do not have whatsoever. Figured I’d do the best I can to understand the beginnings of this game so as to kind of discern where fundamentals are... I got this Controller here and after watching this it looks more like an instrument now, rather than lookin’ like under the hood of a car. All whom are responsible for this video just know its much appreciated, thank you so much and I look forward to coming back around to your content.

I got a question for you, Kareem... I would like to know if with DDJ-SR you can load using the double press a song which is played on deck 2 to deck 1 for someone comfortable to scratch with a left or right deck ... IDK if you see what I mean

If you mention that the platters are touch sensitive, you can advice that vinyl mode never has to be off if you touch the edge of the platter to slow seek.

Thanks for this review, i've just bought a Pioneer DDJ DDJ-SR and your video have made me happy about my purchase, i think it's a really nice piece of controller!! I'm a dubstep producer, i hope this consolle will fit with my music. Bye man!

How Do You Cue Up Saved Manual Loops In The Song? Please Let Me Know....Great Video Man...

damn! your review made me fall in love with this! i cant wait to buy it. i have a ddjsb and its a little to basic for me now. i need to upgrade! thanks! keep up the good work.

Thanks Bro. That was one of the best thorough and concise controller reviews I've seen yet.Thanks for you input, and keep up the good work... DJCHILL Chi-Town

Ive been djing for about a year now, but only from virtural dj and a mouse. Is this a good controller to get into djing for clubs?

are you using PC or MAC? I just picked up a MBP Retina w/ Mavericks 10.9 and wanted to see what was a compatible dj controller.

hey how is the quality of the mic input and how reliable is it? I've had trouble in the past with Numark and Denon "all in one" units where the mic input distorts or echos, and I do a lo of MC work when I DJ parties. Right now I use a Numark NS7 and have to use a separate mixer to run my mics. Any info would help.

hi kareem. i am looking at purchasing pionner ddj sr or ddj sx. i noticed that the sr has some more pad effects than the sx does. which one would be the better buy.

Hello Kareem. Thanks for the review. Regarding external devices, Can I mix songs from an external Source (e.g. CDJ). If not, in which situation is it worth really having an external device?

Detailed review! Great walk through on the DDJ SR. Nice work Kareem!

Hey DJBooth DJ's, When doing a manual loop on serato and you would press OUT on the serato. When you spin the jogwheel fast or normal it freezes. What could be the problem behind it?

Great review! Clear voice and relaxed explanation...and it seems to be honest! Thanks for this one!

Been having my eyes on this particular dj controller and feel it would be a great purchase, thanks for the review. you've really helped me a lot!

Hey dj Booth, trim level knob keeps the music level the same on both channel? Don't want some songs louder then other. Thanks

Got it, but I'm not getting any sound through my headphones. The settings menu in the SERATO DJ main screen won't let me change the cue mix, setting. What am I doing wrong???

Hi there- I’ve been going into utilities mode to change the jog wheel colors. You press the top three fx buttons on the right to change colors. The first two work fine but fx3 does not work as it should. It should change colors according to my beat points but instead it just stays a pale blue…do you have any idea why?

I bought one of these ddj sr but took it back and exchanged it for an ns6...You can access everything much more easily on the ns6...Plus the ns6 has fader starts if you want to quickly echo out into the next track...Reasons I took the ddj sr back was because you will have to use the "shift" button way to damn much...no fader starts...and the channel faders have to much resistance...i like them to go straight up and down in an instant...thats just my opinion...but if you want to go all crazy with digital effects...go with the ddj sr..

Thanks for this awesome and very detailed & professional review I was between the ddj SB and the DDJ SR and thanks to your reviews on both pioneer controller models I was able to decide on the DDJ SR for two reasons separate cue and play buttons and that this comes with the full serato not ich so an upgrade is not needed.

Hey Kareem, Is it worth buying the old products like the ddj s1 now as it's cheap and I'm looking for budget too

hi kareem. have been thinking of buying one of these three controllers. terminal mix 8 ddj sr or pioneer ddj sx. which would you choose and why. at the monment i have a pioneer ddj s1. or should I just add a reloop neon controller to my current s1.

Thanks for the review. Question: It has a 2 channel mixer, but you can control 4 decks.... can the 4 decks play audio simultaneously?

very good review especially because I'm debating between Pioneer DDJ SR or Gemini CDMP 7000. Any inputs?

hey I was curious that I have a hard time mixing different genres and beat matching without the sync button with the Traktor S2 and I wanted to know if the Pioneer DDj-Sr would have more versatile abilities compared to the traktor S2 in mixing

for some reason I can't seem to use the board. If I drag the song in and everything is on and selected the song won't load onto the board and none of the effects or anything, I can't use or mix manually, I already tried updating on Serato but it didn't work, PLEASE HELP

Hey kareem I am in a bit of a dilema I've given a down payment on a denon mc 6000mk2 but now numark has bought denon. So some one recommended me to buy the ddj sr instead because later on they might discontinue the mc 6000mk2 what do you think about it and what should I do? Thanks in advance.

Please, buy compensates DDJ SX instead of SR? The SX has better performance? What are the advantages? And it's Preferable to buy DDJ SX or CDJ-350?

Thanks for the vid! Which would you recommend over Numark NS6 vs Pioneer DDj-SR?

Oh yeah, i forgot to mention that i really, really wanted to keep the ddj-sr because the mpc pads or whatever they are called are great!!!! The response for hot cues, samples and all the effects work better than any equipment ive ever owned...but it wasn't enough...

While using this mini controller I had deck 1# playing system would freeze when trying to load or play song on deck #2. Any input?

Are the performance pads like that you dont feel, that you pressed the button(like on SX2)

Do you think this would be a better choice than getting a Numark NV? I am upgrading from a Pioneer DDJ SB

Are there any decent home party dj speakers under £100 as a pair? Or under $170

Do the platters on this feel anywhere near the same as pioneer cdj turntables? Movement wise as well?

I am really having hard time thinking which one should i buy pioneer ddj sr or Reloop terminal mix 8. Which one do You thinking is better

Good review Kareen Julien !!!! I just copped this after watching your video. I am an old school DJ who ONLY spun wax and never dug CD's because of how easy they skipped, I had a CDJ but never really used it. My question is does this have a record feature and I will be able to hook up my tech 1200s too right?

Will it read music off of my hard drive? Do I have to use a laptop for this controller? If I have to use a laptop, what is the best laptop I can get for the cheapest price? How does scratching sounds on it? Do it remembers your cues?

I'm thinking of getting a controller and I can't decide which one should I get... I'm thinking of Pioneer DDJ-SB, Pioneer DDJ-SR (this one) and Numark Mixtrack Pro 2... I know this one is like 2 times expensive so I'm wondering is it worth it to give more $ for this one?

Hey DJbooth DJ's! I have a very specific question for you to solve for a situation I'm in at the moment. I have a pair of powered Bose speakers which I would like to have on my table, pointing towards me. These can be plugged in via RCA on the DDJ-SR (into Master 2), and would not be an issue. However, I would also like to plug in an amplifier (which supplies power to other unpowered speakers) into another Master output, so that the same output is coming through both the amplifier speakers, and the Bose speakers. I have 2 questions: 1. Does the DDJ-SR simultaneously output music out of both Master 1 and Master 2 outputs? So that I can have music coming through both my pair of powered speakers, and music coming through an amplifier with unpowered speakers? 2. My amplifier only supports RCA inputs. Master 1, however, only seems to have a balanced TRS output. Are there any balanced TRS to RCA cables available? Thank you for your help, and I hope this makes sense! Awesome video :)

I don't know whether to get this or the Nurmark NV :/ I live in the UK and the DDJ-SR is £499 and the Nurmark NV is £515... Are there any huge differences other than the screens on the NV?

im a starter to being a dj, do u tink the ddj sr is a gr8 choice

Im a beginner . I was wondering which one you recommend DDJ SB or DDJ SR?? And what kind of set up I need? I just want to play music like in small parties or my room lol . Great review of both controllers! Id appreciate your help!

Hey Kareem, I got this controller but when I try to record a set in Protools or Audacity it the sound comes all chopped, noisy, or the sound doesn't come out at all. I think I tried all the options to get it right. Can you help me with a solution?

Is there a difference between the sensitivity of the pads on this vs. the DDJ-SX? I recently purchased a DDJ-SR and noticed I have to tap the pads a little hard in order for them to work. I'm not sure if there is a way to adjust the sensitivity.

I usually play dubstep/trap which one do you suggest me Reloop Terminal Mix 8 or DDJ-SR?

Just some questions from a rookie DJ that just got a SR and has no idea how to use it: What is Ch 1/2 and Master levels?What is the difference between the Hot cue and the Cue? What does the parameter do? Lastly, how would you recommend a beginner like me learn how to use this Controller and learn how to mix in general? Any good websites,youtube channels, books, etc?

Nice review, shame it does not have independend psu input.I have one question.How does controller show loop or effect shorter than 1 beat?, does it have a dot or some marking lit up when going shorter than 1 beat?

Is there any way to change the resistance of the the jog wheel? I have the Vestax VCI-300 and I found it easier to scratch when i increase the resistance of the jog wheel

Just got one of these & loving it....

Do you need to buy the serato dj software in order to use the dj controller or is the free version also available?

The DDJ S1 was pioneers first flagship controller with serato. It used serato itch

Hey Kareem what should I get the pioneer ddj sr or ddj sb because I'm just starting out and once I get good and start at gigs and stuff I might upgrade to the sx or sz

hi kareem. what song are you demoing using the pioneer ddj sr

I noticed that this controller has not got an adjustable jog wheel option or start/stop speed but in your video at 16:44 you stopped the deck like a vinyl. How did you do this as mine just stops soon as u press it without the vinyl effect. Please help

Hi, What controller you like more DDJ-SR VS Numark NV?

Can you connect two Pioneer CDJ 350 in back of the Pioneer ddj SR or is their only one connections in the back over all it's really nice & really good lay for a controller

Right now I have a DDJ-SB, and I would like to upgrade. Is the SR the best option for me?

how do you connect these to amps if there isn't a master output in the back? is there a cable for these types of mixers?

I know there is a way to activate a second slicer mode, how do I do that on the DDJ-SR? Where the slicer loop mode is activate??

This may have been answered already, but I am a first time Dj and stuck between choosing XDJ-RX, DDJ-SX2, DDJ-SR, TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 MK2... ANY ADVICE?

Good review!!! I'm looking ta buy one so I'm going through loads of reviews so you've helped a lot, nice one!!!

How is this controller for live sound? like for parties. I have heard from others that its low due to being USB powered. I trust your opinion which is why I'm asking. I'm undecided between the ddj sr and the numark NV.

Hi, I just bought one of these. Having problems... I have TRS Cables plugged into the master output of the deck going straight into the back of my KRK rockit 5 monitors. Sound only comes out when i play out of itunes and youtube. When I play tracks in serato no sound comes out. I am running Mavericks, and i have my in and outs as Pioneer etc.. Help would be appreciated thanks.

Hey Kareem, people are worried that this controller won't play loudly since it is USB powered. Can you comment on this?

Hey, i bought the DDJ-SR and how do i use the samples? Do i have to buy Serato Full? Cause I got the disc with it. I downloaded Serato DDJ-SR on the Internet ( The disc told me too). I downloaded all the 120 samplers but how do I use it? Please answer so quick as possible.

So Which one do you think is better, the DDJ-SR or the Numark NV ?

I'm a former vinly dj who played for about 8 years until 1993. I'm looking to play again, mainly as a hobby, but want to combine vinyl with digital. What's a good controller to do this?

help wich one is better the pioneer ddj sr or the numark nv?? i cant decide wich one

I have a problem.when I cross over to each song the track is always higher than the other.how can I correct that? Help ya’ll

Yo how can I use it as a 4 channel mixer like on Serato DJ I press the deck mode to 4 but the sound doesn't come out what do I do?

Hello could you help me with a problema I'm having, so I connect my mp3 on the aux in on the back but the sound won't come out, what could I be doing wrong?

does this come with the full version of serato to?... if so does that give you a huge free library of music for a certain period of time?

Hello brother good morning is how can I install Serato DJ software on my laptop for DJ sr ?

thanks for this review ended up getting this controller as it was in my price range and came with the full serato dj software (just moved from keyboard mixing on vdj). As a scratch beginner my problem with the unit is i'm distracted cos my eyes have to be on my laptop so its hard to get my mixer hand right but apart from that great review. THANK YOU

Would this be perfect for an experienced dj? I've played on cdj's for some years, playing loads of gigs. But aint having the big money! :)

nice review! I prefer more demo, but still very well explained and touched every button and in/output. thanks!!!

Hey man, you have AWESOME reviews. I love the in-depth detail. Much appreciation especially since I live in China. Anyways, I've seen all the reviews but I want a personal opinion. I am looking at grabbing either this DDJ SR, the Denon MC4000, or the Gemini G2V. I only need 2 channel, serato compatible, levels, rugged construction, hi/lo filter knob, 3EQ knobs, loops, etc.... What are your thoughts? The pioneer is pretty, but that small pitch slider is limiting... the Gemini is ugly, but seems to have all the features, but Gemini isn't my first choice when I DJ. It seems like the Denon is about perfect, especially the price tag. I use a controller here at a club that doesn't have gear.... I have 2 residencies, one provides 4 CDJ2000 nexus/DJM 800 setup.. the other one, nothing. Kinda crappy so I want a good controller since I am using a really bad Chinese made one at the club that doesn't have decks. Thanks for your input! Also, I like the SR because of it's cross-compatibility with my CDJ's.. It's almost like playing on CDJ's. I like the big platters.. In addition are any of the 3 used as standalone? Or do they all need computer? -Caleb

getting the DDJ SR can't wait costing me 300 think that's a gud deal....back soon to comment when got em....CANT WAIT....

please djBooth...i need your help with the installing the serato pionner ddj sr to a windows 8.Maybe you have a tutorial how to install pionner ddj sr for windows 8???????Thanks

hey i use spotify i was wondering if i was able to use spotify with any dj programs that work with the ddj-sr

hey so if this is my first time ever touching DJ equipment would this be a good start?

I have this control and I just got a microphone I plugged in the microphone to the controller but the controller has volume and also the box of the microphone the receiver it also has a volume so how do I control the volume for both

Thanks, also can you recommend some good low priced speakers for a beginner dj ?

Im stuck between Numark ns6 or Pioneer DDj-SR. Which one?

Hey Kareem I want to buy aaa mixing panel to preform live and stuff do you think this is a good one or do you recommend a other one to me? Please respond And is the serato software good or crap what should i us and buy please respond kareem

can u help me please I'm buying the DDJ SR second hand it has a disc with it will that b all I need to get up and running please let me no asap dude before I buy....THANKS...KOOPZ

Can you Please make a full review on the pioneer dd.-sx2. Im going to buy it and i really want a very detailed review. Thats would be awesome.

Can you please do a comparison video on several mid-range controllers available? Like Pionner DDJ SR vs Numark NV vs Traktor Kontrol S4 etc? Thanks in advance...

Hey Karim, Can i connect a violin 1/4" inch plug to this controller and play and mix a song along with the violin sound? Thanks bro, Great review I love my controller

Does this controller work with Traktor or is it only compatible with Serato?

DDJ-S1 and DDJ-T1 was the first controller from Pioneer!!!

hi just a quick question would i be able too hook this control to, two active alto ts115 speaker which also comes with bluetooth? uknow the bluetooth won't work.

Can you use a mic on this and does serato record your voice ?

would you recomend this or the traktor kontrol s2